Kyle Simpson recently contacted me to write a post on Organic foods for The Clean Eating Mama’s readers. I am a big supporter of Organic foods and how important they are to us and the environment. Thanks again, Kyle!
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The Benefits of Eating Organic and Ways to find it on a Budget
Kyle Simpson writes for Medical Coding Certification where you can find more information about a career and training in the medical field.
Have you joined the bandwagon of eating organic? Studies touting the health and environmental benefits of organic foods have made them more popular than ever. More than 70% of consumers have at least one organic product on their shopping lists, according to one market research firm.
There are lots of reasons for buying organic foods: foods haven’t been doused in pesticides, organic food has higher nutrient levels and better flavor, and you don’t have to worry about additives like hydrogenated fats, artificial colors or preservatives. In addition, when you buy organic meat you know it’s free from any growth hormones and grown in a natural environment.
Organic foods not only benefit your health, but also the environment. By buying organic, you won’t be consuming food grown using harmful chemicals which pollute the environment.
So you’re sold on organic food, but the next question is can you afford it? Organic produce, meat and dairy products can cost 50% to 100% more than conventional counterparts. Organic foods may be healthier for you, but they can have a sickening effect on your budget.
However, do not lose hope. There are ways to shop organic for less. Here are a few tips:
- Prioritize the items you feel would benefit you and your family the most. The conventional counterparts to some foods are laden with pesticides and harmful hormones, foods such as apples, lettuce, tomatoes, berries, beef and poultry, and spinach. On the other hand, produce such as bananas, papayas, pineapples, and broccoli require fewer pesticides to grow. The peels on bananas and other tropical fruits further reduce your exposure. If you can afford them, buy all your produce organic, but it you can’t, try not to buy the fruits and vegetables most susceptible to pesticide residue.
- Read labels. Seafood, cosmetics and cleaning products can be labeled “organic” without the same requirement as the U.S. Department of Agriculture imposes on vegetables and meat. You’ll pay premium prices with no guarantees.
- Keep an eye out for sales. Yep, organic products go on sale the same as other products. Watch for coupons or discounts advertised in circulars. Be flexible and stock up when something goes on sale. Also, buy fruits and veggies that are in season.
- Your local farmer’s market can be a great place to buy organic food. Competition helps keep down prices. Also try community-supported agriculture programs.
- Shop generics. Many supermarkets are adding organic lines to their private labels which allows you to save money over big-name brands.
- Try growing your own vegetables and fruit in your own backyard or join a community garden.
Can you afford to eat organic? It’s a personal choice, but you might be surprised how much the average family spends on junk food, carry-out food, alcohol and tobacco. Organic food can be seen as an investment to your health and well being.
The Clean Eating Mama 