Scientists in Denmark have discovered that organically-grown vegetables strengthen the immune system. Researchers at the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences have found that rats fed with organically-grown vegetables are healthier than rats fed with non-organic greens.

The rats given the organic produce had more vitamin E which acts as a powerful antioxidant and is known to protect against cardiovascular disease. The organically-fed rats also had less body fat and were calmer than those fed on non-organic food.

The study was funded by the Danish Research Centre for Organic Farming, which said in a statement: "In all cases where differences were observed there was a beneficial effect of the organically grown diet."

Further research from the Organic Center in the US found that organic farming methods have the potential to elevate average antioxidant levels, especially in fresh produce. The Organic CenterÍs second State of Science Review (SSR) looked at existing scientific information in order to compile its report Elevating Antioxidant Levels Through Organic Farming and Food Processing. It reveals that on average antioxidant levels were around 30% higher in organic food compared to conventional food.