While many studies have determined the organic constituents of plants, fewer have analyzed their metal content. The metal content is an important aspect of produce since metals play vital roles as structural and functional components in living cells. For basil, it is especially important, as its inherent nutritional properties make it an important plant used in both food and herbal remedies. Recently, there has been an increase in the popularity of organic foods. The question of whether or not organically grown foods are nutritionally superior to those grown conventionally has often been asked and a recent meta study found no significant difference between numerous types of organic and conventional food. This study compares seasonal differences in metal content of basil grown with different cultivation methods: USDA certified organic and conventional. Conventionally grown indicates methods that were not certified organic by the USDA. The content of Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, and Zn in each basil sample was quantitatively determined by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS). Samples were collected from both fall and spring growth seasons and analyzed separately. Significant differences between growing methods were seen in the fall samples in Zn and Mg. Additionally, significant differences were seen in the K, Cu, and Fe concentrations between the fall and spring samples.

Seasonal comparison of organic and conventionally grown basil leaves commercially available in Texas

247th National Meeting (2014)

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