Source: NPR
Scarred fruit might yield greater health benefits, according to research that looks at numerous studies on organic fruits. Time and again, studies on organic fruits that are exposed to low or no pesticides have shown between a 20 to 40 percent higher level of antioxidants when compared to other fruits, according to a recent examination of 343 different studies. In a similar way, fruits that are scarred do not have pesticides or have low amounts and therefore have to “fight off” insects and disease, and in the process release antioxidants as a natural defense mechanism.
This could mean that fruits that appear to be bruised and scarred are more likely to have higher content of antioxidants, which ultimately translates to benefit our health. Data in these studies also supports the fact that plants that are stressed by environmental factors produce metabolites that also translate when consumed.
Imperfect Produce is one of many organizations that is currently driving changes in produce markets, to sell these “imperfect” fruits and vegetables that would otherwise end up in the dumps, instead of on the plates of hungry people.
Read full story at: NPR