5 Tips for Going Organic
We’ve all heard how much better it is for you to switch to organic foods, but is it really? What are the benefits of going organic, and how can you do so without overspending? These 5 tips can help!
When you choose organic foods over “conventionally grown,” you are avoiding the massive amounts of pesticides used in industrial agriculture. For example, did you know that there are more than 600 agricultural chemicals currently registered for use in the U.S. today? The amount of chemicals used is absolutely staggering – it works out to about 16 pounds per person each year – yuck!
And unfortunately, most of these chemicals have not been subjected to extensive long-term testing, so we really don’t know much out their potential long term effects on our health.
With these facts in mind, it sure makes sense to switch to organic, but what about the cost?
First of all, don’t feel like you have to go completely organic all at once. As the article below mentions, “While you don’t have to eat strictly organic, buying organic (or from small local farmers and producers who you know don’t use chemicals) whenever possible is a very good idea.”
While organic foods may be more expensive up front (although prices have definitely started coming down in recent years), if you consider the long-term costs (both to your health and to the environment), it’s a no-brainer. But in the short term, we all have to live on what we have, right?
Here are 5 tips to help you start making the switch to organic foods, without breaking the bank:
1. Shop At Your Regular Grocery Store
You don’t have to start shopping at a high-end market or natural foods store to get organic foods. Chain stores like Target, Walmart, Costco, Safeway, and Kroger all carry their own reasonably priced lines of organic foods. (Kroger often has very good sales on organic produce – sometimes it’s even cheaper than conventional.)2. Buy In Bulk
Organic oats, brown rice, dried beans, nuts, and seeds are usually cheaper in bulk because you’re avoiding all that packaging. To figure out just how much you’ll save—and if it’s worth it—compare the unit price of bulk and individually packaged items.
3. Enjoy In-Season Produce
Locally grown, in-season fruits and vegetables are cheaper, since there are essentially no transportation costs…. If you find a great deal, stock up, and freeze, dry, or can in-season produce for later use.
4. Consider A CSA
Buying shares of a local farm’s yield through a community-supported agriculture (CSA) means that in return for your financial support of the farm, you get a weekly box of fresh produce. These collectives are great for your wallet and community.
5. Eat Less Meat
While lean animal proteins are certainly a healthy component of clean eating, they are one of the most expensive organic (and non-organic, for that matter) foods you can buy. Consider eating a few meatless meals each week to save on costs….
Read the full article at Rodale’s Organic Life…
