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Eating Organic on a Budget
Most of us know that eating organic food is better for our health, the environment, and local farmers. Unfortunately, all of these benefits come at an increased cost, and when times are tough it may seem tempting to switch to processed foods to save a few pennies. Here are a few strategies for shopping organic without breaking the bank.
Eat simply and avoid packaged foods
Those organic pre-packaged soups and frozen pizzas may be convenient, but they also have the greatest markup. Instead, stick to simple foods like produce, grains and beans. Make your own soups and pizzas!
Buy private label organic brands
Supermarkets such as Whole Foods and Trader Joe's have their own private label organic brand, which can provide significant savings on staple ingredients like canned tomatoes, rolled oats and dried fruit.
Eat the seasons
All produce - not just organic - is cheaper when it's in season. Plus, it always tastes better. And if you can't go all year without strawberries or spinach, consider learning how to preserve these foods by freezing or canning. Not only will you be able to enjoy your favorite foods all year round, but you'll also save on pickles, jams, jellies and chutneys.
Eat local and from the source
Just like with seasonal fruit, food is cheaper when it doesn't have to be flown across the globe to get to your plate. A local farmers' market is usually the best place to find local and seasonal food at it's cheapest. And if you go to the farmer's market at the end of the day, many farmers offer big discounts on the extra food that didn't sell during the day. Don't have a farmer's market near you? Don't despair. Just check the labels at your supermarket. You'll inevitably notice that the cheapest food is the food that comes from your part of the world.
Eat lower on the food chain
Organic meat is one of the priciest foods around, but it's also one of the most important foods to buy organic. Instead of making meat the main part of your meal, enjoy it as a side dish and fill up the rest of your plate with grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables.
Know When and Where to Compromise
If you can't afford eating organic exclusively, then try to buy conventional foods that are the least laden with pesticides. The Environmental Working Group has a Shopper's Guide to Pesticides available on their website that lists the "dirty dozen" and "clean 15" fruits and vegetables. For example, onions, avocado and sweet corn top the clean list, while peaches, apples and peppers are among the dirtiest. Use the EWG's handy wallet guide to make an educated decision when buying produce at the supermarket.
Grow Your Own
Perhaps the best way to save money on eating organic food is to grow your own. If you don't have a garden or don't have a lot of time, then start simply by growing your own herbs. Basil, parsley, and chives are just a few herbs that grow easily in a small pot or window box. Not only will your handy pot of fresh herbs spice up your meals, but they'll also ease the cost of buying fresh and dried herbs at the supermarket.
For more on eating organic, check out the EnvyMyHealth.com Nutrition Channel!
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