Receta The scoop on Eating Organic on a Budget
The scoop on Eating Organic on a Budget
May 30, 2013 By: Kathy3 Comments
What exactly is organic?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency foods called organic can not be treated with synthetic pesticides, sewage sludge, bioengineering and ionizing radiation. Hmmm, I don’t know about you but those things alone sound scary enough and make want to eat organic. Since pesticides can not be used organic foods generally cost more because it’s much more labor intensive to grow.
When shopping look for labels that have an USDA organic seal. Look for
100% organic – these have no allowable synthetic ingredients and can use the organic seal
Organic – these foods have at least 95% organic ingredients as per allowable regulations. Items labeled “made with organic ingredients” are not eligible for the seal.
Organic on a budget. Fruits and vegetables are a good place to start when buying organic especially since conventional ways of growing them include utilizing pesticides and fertilizers to enhance growth. Personally I love locally and organically grown produce. It tastes better and looks real versus its conventionally produced cousins that all looks alike and perfect. I’ve done some research and put together this list of whats called the “Dirty Dozen”. These are fruits and veggies that are highly susceptible to the use of pesticides. It pays to buy these organic.
There are other ways to save money but it requires a little work on your behalf. No pain no gain right? Here are some additional tips.
Buy in bulk and freeze
Look for coupons
Shop organic websites that deliver straight to your doorstep
Shop at supermarkets that promote their own organic brand
Do not wash organic berries and lettuce until ready to consume
Store organic bread in the refrigerator or use semi stale bread to make home made croutons (cut into small squares, add herbs and bake at 400 degrees until golden. Store in an airtight container.) Plan your meals – I can not begin to stress the importance of this tip. If you know what you’re cooking the entire week, then you can buy only what is needed to make those meals. Make sure to include snacks and lunches when planning. Not only will it save you money, but it will save you time and help shed some weight. Running to the supermarket hungry after work makes you prone to buying items you do not need. If you’re not going to the store, you’re not buying.
If you are looking to make small changes then buying Organic dairy and organic eggs is a must.
I hope these tips help and make things a little easier.