OTTAWA— Would you prefer an imported organic apple or a local conventional one? An informal Farmers Forum survey found that the vast majority of people would choose the local product over an organic import.

Of 20 people polled in Ottawa’s Byward market, around the corner from Parliament Hill, 18 people said they would choose a conventional apple from a local farmer over an apple imported from California.

Farmers Forum asked this question: "What would you rather buy? An organic apple from California or a conventional apple from a local farmer?" For the purpose of the study local was defined as anything within a 100-km radius of the purchase. The survey is not scientific but is indicative of a new trend. We also asked non-farmers, family and friends and got similar results.

The most common reason for choosing the local product was because respondents "want to support the local farmer." Other common responses were that some people just don’t trust imports. "There are no guarantees with something that is imported. How do you know if it is organic or how fresh it is?" remarked Mrs. Godfrey. Another common response was that the transportation of the organic apple created more emissions and hurt the environment more than a local, conventional product And there were those who preferred the taste of local. "It is just more delicious," said one man.

The two who preferred the organic import said they try to buy local organic food.