According to the nov/dec 1999 Organic Gardening
magazine, our food has become less nutritious in the
last 30 years.  Here is a synopsis of the letter to
the secretary of agriculture that was in the mag.
Vitamin and mineral content of American and British
food supplies appear to be declining.  The Kushi
Institute of Becket Massachusetts has studied USDA
nutrient data from 1975-1997 and found that average
calcium levels in 12 fresh veggies have declined 27%,
iron levels dropped 37%, vit. A levels 21% and vit. c
levels 30%.  A report in the British Food Journal
(1997, vol 99, pp207-211) average calcium declined
19%, iron 22%, & potassium 14% in the 14 veggies
compared.
The letter goes on to state that they believe that
this is due to the use of chemicals on farm land.
They state that the efficiency rate of nitrogen
application is only 50% and that the remainder becomes
nitric acid in the soil.  They estimate that this
overuse of nitrogen in the last 30 years has
"destroyed much of the soil's fertility, the
scientists found, causing it to age the equivalent of
5,000 years."  They also site a U.S. Geological Survey
study that indicates that calcium levels are being
depeted by acid rain in 10 eastern states.
This may make it even more difficult for paleopersons
to get their proper nutrition.  Move over victory
gardens, make way for paleo patches!!
Jane

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