Cheap and organic

The famous seal (USDA)

If you walk into any grocery store around the country, you're bound to find at least a small section dedicated to organic food.  Organic is everywhere.  There are organic clothes, food, plants, and even mattresses.

But, is organic really better?  How can I shop for it on a budget?

The fuss over organic is true.  Organic foods are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically engineered ingredients.  Organic foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients or preservatives.  That means all of those contaminants are kept out of your body.  Without the use of synthetic and chemical fertilizers, the air, water, and soil stays cleaner, too.

The fuss over high prices for organic food is also true.  In some parts of the nation a gallon of organic milk costs upwards of $5.00.  In today's economy it's hard to convince consumers to spend an extra 20-100 percent more on organic groceries, but buying organic on a budget can be done.

Farmers markets: Don't limit yourself to the organic section of Food Lion or Harris Teeter.  Check out your local farmers market.  The State Farmers Market in Raleigh has everything from local, organic fruits and vegetables to hormone-free beef products.  If you don't see a sign stating the produce is organic, be sure to ask. Some farmers may be making the transition to organic farming.  You should also get to know a few of the vendors.  If they recognize you from week to week, they are more likely to help you pick out the best produce and give you a good deal. 


Grocery store alternatives: You can find great deals on organic foods at retailers besides your typical grocery store.  I know Big Lots has a reputation for selling expired food, but I recently hit the jack pot there.  Big Lots sells tons of organic and natural household and food items like Muir Glen, Nature's Path, Kashi, and Method.  My best find was a huge box of Kashi Mountain Medley Granola for $6.00.  The small boxes at Kroger are $4.99.  Big Lots' products change from week to week, so you never know what kind of organic products it will have (just be sure to check the date on the box, too!).

Some of my Big Lots finds.

Buy in bulk: Buying in bulk can help you stretch your budget.  For beans, grains, and nuts, head straight for the large bags. You'll get more out of a large bag of beans than you will in a small, expensive can of organic beans.  You can store your dried goods in a cool, dry place or cook them all up at once and store the leftovers in the freezer.

Buy seasonal: Load up on seasonal fruits and vegetables for great prices. Right now apples, arugula, brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens, lettuce, parsnips, and much more are in season in North Carolina.  In-season products are cheaper than other foods which have to travel long distances to get to the grocery store.

Ease into organic. It can be a big step. Start by buying your favorite foods in organic, such as black beans or apples.  After a few trips to Big Lots and your local farmers market, you'll get the hang of finding the best deals on organic products.