I can’t go organic with everything. Are there some foods that matter more?
Yes! If you can’t make the switch fully, there are definitely some products that are more dangerous than others. Sometimes referred to as the “Dirty Dozen,” the following produce are especially important to go organic with: peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, imported grapes, spinach, pears, lettuce, and potatoes. By switching to organic for only these items, you can eliminate exposure to about 15 different pesticides!
Animal products ranging from meat to dairy are always important to eat organic. Conventional products can contain hormones used for growth, antibiotics used to prevent disease, chemical and toxins in pesticides and more. Learn more about going organic!
The “Consistently Clean” list identifies products that are generally tested to be free of pesticides and includes: onions, avocados, sweet corn, papaya, mango, pineapple, asparagus, kiwi, broccoli, cabbage and sweet peas. These products are less important to buy organic. Visit the Environmental Working Group’s website for more detailed information.
I want to buy organic foods, but they are just too expensive! What can I do?
Don’t get discouraged! There are less expensive ways to buy organic foods.
In general organic food does cost more. Organic produce costs about 20% more than its conventionally grown counterpart and organic meats can cost up to 3 times as much. There are strategies you can use to find healthy, organic foods that fit your budget.
Look for sales at your local grocery stores. Buying in bulk for foods with a long shelf life will shave a ton off of the price. Also, always try to buy locally, seasonally, and from the source. Farmer’s markets are a great way to find less expensive safe, natural foods while supporting local growers. Since you are buying directly from the producer and close to home, it will often cost less. Additionally, foods that are out of season locally can be more expensive because of the oil used to transport the food over great distances.
Learn more about a cost-effective organic lifestyle.
Why is it better for me to buy organic foods?
Organic food is better for the body. Foods grown conventionally are treated with chemicals and pesticides to control weeds and pests, prevent plant disease and fertilize soil. These chemicals and toxic materials can remain on foods long after they are harvested and can pose health threats to you and your family. Exposure to these harmful materials is especially dangerous for children as they develop.
Eating organic food reduces the amount of dangerous materials in our bodies. It is grown without chemicals or pesticides and is regulated by the FDA. Summary of FDA standards for produce and animal products.
Additionally organic foods have been found to contain more nutrients, vitamins and anti-oxidants. For more general information on the importance of going organic check out easy step #4!
