Why do you buy organic?

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The Annals of Internal Medicine have given consumers a question to ponder: to buy organic or no?  Unfortunately, an easy answer is not to be found, as each individual's answer can only be found in the answer to another question: why do you buy organic?
The new research found that organic food contains no more vitamins or minerals than conventionally grown food, so if looking for a nutritional boost in the additional money you spend to buy organic, you may not find it.  But it may not exist at all due to farming practices whose goals focus more on size, mass production and greater resistance to pests than on nutrition.  In fact, the Kushi Institute found a 27% decline in the amount of calcium found in foods between 1975 and 1997, along with a 37% reduction in iron levels; both of which are vital to the growth and development on little bodies (see full article in Scientific American).    
For those buying organic for fewer pesticides, the study found that organic food had a 30% lower risk of contamination from pesticide residue.  The US Department of Agriculture states that in 2010, 59% of conventional produce has detectable amounts of pesticides even after proper washing.  The long term effects of the consumptions of pesticides at these levels on children have yet to be sufficiently studied, and the only studies conducted on the benefits of an organic diet have been shorter than two years, so long term benefits are unproven.  If you are buying organic to limit the pesticides you consume, consider the Environmental Protection Group's app that lists the clean and dirty foods for a grocery store reference on when to safely buy organic.
There are other benefits to organic farming that may guide you to purchase strictly organic, but regardless of your reasons, what is most important is to make the healthiest and most informed choices for your family.  Because though the above may be a pessimistic view on our nation's produce, my refrigerator is stocked with fresh, organic produce because I want to limit my family's exposure to pesticides to the degree that I can.  What is your choice?