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Your friend Mark is an avid organic food consumer. He believes that natural foods are the only way to avoid the chemicals that farmers "poison" their crops with. You warn Mark that not all natural foods are free from toxins; indeed, that many foods contain naturally occurring toxic substances. The example you provide could be the solanine commonly found in ________.

1) fruits
2) vegetables
3) meat
4) dairy products

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Despite the belief that organic foods are completely free of toxins, natural substances such as solanine, found in vegetables like potatoes, can also be toxic. Organic produce may still include natural pesticides, which can affect the environment and health. It's crucial to understand that all substances, including food and water, are made up of chemicals, and not all are harmful.

Step-by-step explanation:

You warn Mark that not all natural foods are free from toxins; indeed, that many foods contain naturally occurring toxic substances. The example you provide to Mark could be the solanine commonly found in vegetables. Foods may contain naturally occurring toxins, such as solanine which is found in nightshade vegetables like potatoes, especially when they are green or have sprouted.

Organic foods are produced using methods that avoid most synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, but they may use organic pesticides. Despite being natural, some of these organic pesticides can still be harmful to the ecosystem, including bees. It's also important for consumers like Camille to understand that organic foods may still use certain naturally derived pesticides, and to research their effects on the environment and health.

Moreover, the term "chemicals" does not necessarily refer to something harmful. All matter, including water and all foods, consists of chemicals. While clean eating often refers to avoiding synthetic additives, it's essential to recognize that not all chemicals are bad, and that natural foods can also have toxins like solanine.

User Daniel Fletcher
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