Making The Switch To Organic - How To Keep Costs Down
Organic food is a hot topic at the moment, and several people are starting to realize what benefits organic groceries have over processed foods. Eating organic does not need to be extremely costly. Here are some tips for you to use to make the switch to an organic lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Do Your Research
Before making the switch to organic, be aware of which fruits and vegetables do not have much of a risk if you buy them non-organically. Some produce has a lot more pesticides sprayed upon them when they are being grown than others. Make sure to switch the high-risk produce items to organic, and make a determination on the others depending on the price, as they are not as much of a risk to your health.
The "Dirty Dozen" is a list created by the Environmental Working Group to show consumers which produce has the most pesticide risk if not bought in an organic form. Most of the items have an edible skin, increasing the risk of pesticide consumption.
Shop At Local Markets
More and more communities across the United States have small-business owners starting organic markets to give consumers a choice in the quality of their food items. Organic produce grown locally is sold in markets, health food stores and at roadside stands. These stores often have specials on whichever items are in season at the time, giving you a chance to try different produce at a decent price.
Buy In Bulk
When buying organic foods, it makes sense to buy in bulk if you are going to be eating healthily for the long haul. Items such as rice, quinoa, and pasta stay fresh for a long duration, making it cost-effective to buy larger amounts. Some produce, such as apples or carrots, stay fresh longer than berries or greens. Buying bigger bags of these items will save you money if you use them regularly. Keep them in your refrigerator to keep them fresh even longer.
Clip Coupons
It is harder to find organic coupons than it is for processed items. The next time you walk through an organic market or see an organic section in a grocery store, jot down a few of the main companies offering organic choices. Go online to look up their individual web pages to see if they offer any coupons for their products. Social media groups have organic coupon sites that tell members where coupons can be found as well. Southtown Health Foods is a local organic grocery store you can shop at for more information.