Summary
This study, likely drawing on long-term field trial data (possibly the DOK trial in Switzerland, with which Mäder is closely associated), examines whether organic farming systems produce wheat of meaningfully different nutritional quality compared to conventional systems. The paper reports on a range of grain quality indicators including protein fractions, mineral concentrations, and phytochemical content, contributing empirical evidence to a contested area of food systems research. Findings are likely nuanced, with some quality parameters favouring organic production whilst yields under organic management are typically lower.
UK applicability
Although the study is likely based in Switzerland or central Europe, the arable cereal context and the organic versus conventional management comparison are highly applicable to UK farming debates, particularly given ongoing UK policy interest in the Sustainable Farming Incentive and the role of organic standards in delivering public goods.
Key measures
Grain protein content (%); mineral concentration (e.g. Fe, Zn, Mg, Ca, mg/kg); total phenolic content; baking quality parameters; yield (t/ha)
Outcomes reported
The study compared nutritional composition — including protein, minerals, and secondary metabolites — of wheat grown under organic and conventional management systems. It assessed whether farming system influenced grain quality parameters relevant to human nutrition.
Topic tags
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