The Angry Onion Advantage

Burger King might be onto something with its new Angry Whopper. A recent study led by Alyson Mitchell of UC-Davis indicates that organically grown fruits and vegetables have improved taste and nutritional benefits. The nutrition advantages include vitamins and other micronutrients such as antioxidant flavinoids. Mitchell suggests that plant nutrients can be classified into one of two categories: primary and secondary metabolites. Primary metabolites include fats, carbs, and proteins, while secondary metabolites include phenolic acid, flavinoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. Conventional farming through the use of fertilizers and pesticides as well as crop selection focuses on maximizing the primary metabolites. The secondary metabolites are natural chemical defense mechanisms, and production of these compounds is greatly reduced in the presence of artificial supplements. Such compounds serve as natural pesticides and sunscreens and contain flavor compounds.

Although organically grown plants may appear less appetizing, their secondary metabolite content packs a punch in taste and nutrition. Mitchell supports a change in the way consumers view organic produce and encourages rewarding farmers for the nutritional content of their crops rather than quantity and heartiness. Consuming organic produce is no longer just about avoiding potentially harmful chemicals, but also better taste and additional health benefits. Even though the angry onion sounds like a crazy concept, similar farming techniques have been scientifically proven to improve taste and overall quality of a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Science News Article:

http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/40876/title/AAAS_Stress_Can_Make_Plants_More_Nutritious

BK Angry Whopper Ad:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Um_hineki0o

~Angie Burrer

Section 501