Organic foods are rapidly gaining popularity. While some people buy organic food to support environmentally friendly farming practices, others simply want to reduce their chemical exposure. Pesticides, toxic metals, and other contaminants are typically lower in organic foods, while antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are typically higher. Organic food, on the other hand, can come with a hefty price tag. Organic foods cost about half as much as conventional foods. Here are some suggestions for making organic food more affordable.
To begin, keep in mind that you do not have to buy all of your groceries organically. Concentrate on the produce that contains the most pesticides when grown conventionally. Organic peaches, apples, apricots, bell peppers, berries, cherries, potatoes, pears, nectarines, lettuce, and spinach, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), are healthier. Buying organic isn’t as important for produce with lower pesticide levels. Non-organic avocados, bananas, onions, pineapples, kiwis, broccoli, cauliflower, and corn can help you save money. If you don’t plan on eating the skin, there’s no need to buy organic.
Second, turn into a locavore. Attending farmer’s markets in your area and purchasing seasonal produce makes buying organic food on a budget much easier. Fruits and vegetables sold at farmer’s markets are usually the same price as those sold in supermarkets, if not cheaper. When you find a good deal, buy in bulk and freeze what you aren’t going to use right away. You might be able to get produce at rock-bottom prices if you go to the market right before it closes. To avoid dragging their wares back home, many sellers slash their prices drastically. Always check with vendors to see if their products are organic, as some may still be transitioning to organic farming.
Third, become a member of the farm team. Buying a share in a local community-supported agriculture (CSA) program is another way to include organic food in your diet on a budget. The money you pay for a share will be used to cover the farm’s operating costs. In exchange, you’ll get a weekly supply of produce during the harvest season. A full share costs between $300 and $500, and some farms require you to work for a few hours picking produce. However, organic food is usually tastier and healthier than store-bought fruits and vegetables, so the savings can be significant.
Fourth, join a co-op in your neighborhood. A food co-op is a member-owned business that offers organic food and products at a discounted price to members after they pay a small membership fee. Members of the co-op who volunteer to work may be eligible for additional discounts on any products they purchase.
Fifth, be ready to buy organic food in large quantities. Set aside enough storage space in a cool, dry location for foods that can be easily stored for a few months. Organic whole grains, beans, nuts, and lentils are among the best items to buy in bulk. If your food co-op or health food store has a bulk-buying program, inquire about discounts.