Organic labels may not imply calorie-conscious choices

Researchers from Cornell University's Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management recently conducted a study to determine whether shoppers who choose organic food items do so because they perceive these options as being good for their diets.

The scientists surveyed more than 140 shoppers and asked them to rate two versions of similar products, one which they were told was organic, and another that they believed was a refined item. However, neither variety was actually all-natural.

According to the results, the majority of participants rated the organic foods as having fewer calories, less fat and more fiber than their counterparts. The researchers referred to this as the "health halo effect," since many individuals are more likely to overeat or indulge in foods that are labeled as organic.

The findings also indicated that consumers are more likely to pay higher prices for all-natural options.

Shoppers may want to pay attention to nutrition labels in order to determine whether or not organic products are indeed as beneficial as they are perceived to be. Calorie-conscious individuals who want to lose weight through healthy eating may consider adding more fruits and vegetables to their diets.