There's no question that eating healthy foods is important, and organic foods can be among the healthiest. That's because these foods have fewer chemicals such as pesticides, preservatives and growth hormones, and they aren't genetically engineered. But, organic foods can be expensive.
Luckily, here are a few strategies to help you fit organic food into your budget.
If you shop around, you can buy a variety of organic foods at below regular prices. Comparison shopping at the store in your area takes time, but there are now phone apps (such as couponing apps) that make this process a little easier.
The easiest way to buy organic foods on a budget is during sales at supermarkets and health food stores. When there aren't sales, you can find coupons in store fliers, on the store's website, in local newspapers, and on websites that provide coupons.
It's also important to take advantage of offers such as buy-one-get-one free, or two-for-one coupons. In some cases, you can also use store coupons at other supermarkets.
Some stores also price match. This program allows you to bring competitors' flyers to your store of choice and get the lowest advertised price.
More supermarkets now have their own brand of organic foods which is often less expensive than other organic brands sold in the store.
Some stores and supermarkets also offer customer loyalty programs that offer discounts for certain items throughout the year. Plus, with a club card, the discounts are automatic.
Organic farmers often sell their fruits and vegetables directly at farmers' markets. These markets usually start opening up in the spring and have regular open dates into the fall.
Because the farmers sell their crops directly at these markets, prices are usually lower. Buying produce when it's in season can also help you get an even better price.
Joining a local customer-owned food cooperative is another way to save money on your food bill. Or you could simply to simply shop at the co-ops.
Many communities have organic farms. You can search for them online and then buy directly from the growers.
Some local organic farms might also have subscription services available. These services offer customers the chance to have a box of mixed produce sent to them every month.
Either of these are good ways to reduce the cost of organic foods.
When you find a sale on your favourite organic foods, you can buy them in bulk. Usually, buying in bulk saves you money.
Then, once you have the food, you can freeze it for use later. Plus, when you freeze fruits, vegetables and meats properly, they last a few to several months, depending on the item.
Dehydration is another way to store and preserve fruits and vegetables for several months. Food dehydration takes many forms and can be done at home using just your oven.
These are just a few ideas for cutting the costs of buying organic foods. Give them a try to help reduce your food costs while also adding organic foods to your meals.
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