I try to buy organic foods for my family whenever possible. Choosing organic foods creates an impact on our health and the health of our planet. I also think that the biggest deterrent to choosing organics (if not the only deterrent) is affording organic foods so I will give a few tips on buying inexpensive organic foods as well. Here are five reasons I buy organic food for my family.
Why I Buy Organic
What does organic food mean?
Organic food refers to food grown without the use of pesticides. To be certified organic, food must meet specific qualifications including no use of synthetic pesticides, bioengineered genes (GMOs), petroleum-based fertilizers, or sewage sludge-based fertilizers.
Is organic food better?
I believe organic foods are healthier for you and for the health of the earth too. Here is why I buy organic foods for my family.
1. I believe organic foods are healthier.
The definition of organic foods itself is enough to make it clear to me that organic is a better option. I believe that consuming foods which have been repeatedly sprayed with synthetic pesticides means exposing my family to pesticide residue and I hate to do that even at low level concentrations.
2. I believe that organic foods are safer for the farmers and workers.
People do what their job is and I know I would not want my job to be spraying pesticides on crops. Even with the safety precautions that responsible farmers and companies should take, the possibility of exposure to pesticides makes it a dangerous job. I believe growing foods to organic standards is safer for workers.
3. I believe that organic foods are safer for soil and water health.
Because organic farming practices use less pesticides, the soil itself remains healthier. The water in the area remains healthier too with less exposure to pesticide run off. In fact, organic food results in less pollution, reduces soil erosion, increases soil fertility, and uses less energy. Because organic farming helps to preserve a healthier environment, it also helps preserve the ecology and biological diversity of an area. It is better for birds, animals, and people who live close to or work on farms.
4. I believe that organic foods taste better.
I really believe that you can often taste the difference. Organic foods seem to be much more flavorful which means you can use simple ingredients and let them shine like in this heirloom carrot salad recipe.
I understand that organic food does not always fit everyone’s budget so here are a few tips to help you save money on shopping for organics.
Tips For Affording Organic On A Budget
1. Organic Foods Can Be Found At Discount Stores
It used to be that organic foods were harder to find and that you had to find specialty retailers. Now you can find organics at lots of stores. In fact, Walmart has been expanding their organic food options and you will notice more organic vegetables in the produce area. They have made it easy to identify the Marketplace Organic Produce at Walmart with purple organic labels. Keep your eye open next time you shop!
2. Choose Unprocessed Organic Vegetables
You may find that bag of organic carrots that hasn’t been peeled or cut is as cheap or cheaper than conventional carrots that are processed. This rule holds pretty true for all unprocessed organic veggies.
3. Prioritize Your Organic Choices
When it comes to buying organic produce, you may want to consider the Dirty Dozen List and prioritize buying these organic vegetables and fruits that show the highest concentrations of pesticides when grown conventionally- like apples, strawberries, grapes, spinach, celery, cucumbers, and more.
Do you buy organic food for your family? Did you know about the dirty dozen? Do you have any tips to share on how you save money on organic foods?
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AJ @ NutriFitMama says
Yes, we buy organic whenever possible. Trader Joe’s has a nice selection and some good prices for organic fruits and veggies. I shop at a variety of places to get the best deals, but TJ’s consistently tops the list 🙂