Organic Milk Is Better for You

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Whether organic foods have a greater nutritional value than their conventional counterparts is a hotly debated topic.

There is new research to add to the conversation.

A new study conducted by scientists at Newcastle University has found that milk from organically farmed animals contains higher levels of vitamins, antioxidants and "healthy" fats, according to The Telegraph.

Researchers examined milk from 25 farms and found that the organic stuff contained 67% more antioxidants and vitamins, and contained 60% more of conjugated linoleic acid, a healthy fatty acid. The organic milk also contained 39% more of the fatty acid Omega-3.

In addition, the researchers concluded the animals' diets played an important role in the quality of their milk. In a Newcastle press release, researcher Gillian Butler stated, "We have known for some time that what cows are fed has a big influence on milk quality. What is different about this research is it clearly shows that on organic farms, letting cows graze naturally, using forage-based diet, is the most important reason for the differences in the composition between organic and conventional milk."

Butler added that nutritional value is even greater when cows are eating fresh grass and clover.

Butler is quoted in The Telegraph as saying his intention is to discover what it is in organic milk that gives it greater nutritional value, so that might be applied across the board.

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