Buying Organic on a Budget

The benefits of eating organic foods have been well chronicled. Organic foods have not been genetically modified. Produce doesn’t contain chemical pesticides and meats are free from hormones and antibiotics. Our soil and drinking water thrive. All of these things amount to healthier people and a healthier planet.

So why not eat more organic foods? For many, the answer is simple: cost. According to the Department of Agriculture, differences in production and handling cause higher prices. That doesn’t mean you have to be rich to buy organic. We at Gerrity’s have a few tips for buying organic on a budget.

Check for manufacturer coupons.

We admit this may seem obvious, but Gerrity’s carries an expanded assortment of organic produce, meat, and other groceries. Check the weekly ShurSave ad or look online. Your saving starts right here with us.

Buy seasonal.

Organic produce is cheaper when it’s in season. There will be more of it available and it likely won’t have to travel huge distances to get to you. With summer around the corner, look for organic fruits like berries and cherries and vegetables like greens, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

Remember “The Clean 15.”

The Environmental Working Group assembled its “Clean 15” list of fruits and vegetables with minimal traces of pesticides, which means there are certain foods you don’t necessarily need to buy organic. The list includes: onions, avocados, sweet corn, pineapples, mango, sweet peas, asparagus, kiwi fruit, cabbage, eggplant, cantaloupe, watermelon, grapefruit, sweet potatoes, and sweet onions.

It’s best to try to buy the following organic produce: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach/kale/collard greens, cherries, potatoes, grapes, lettuce.