Organic on a Budget

How to Shop Organic on a Budget (from MSN Money)

Products WORTH buying organic

Purchase these items when looking for organic because if purchased conventionally, they are usually laden with pesticides and additives.

FRUIT
Apples, Cherries, Grapes, Pears, Berries, Peaches, Plums, Nectarines

VEGETABLES
Celery, Potatoes, Spinach, Bell Peppers, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Green Beans

MEAT/DAIRY
Beef, Pork, Poultry, Eggs, Dairy Products

OTHER
Baby Food

Products NOT WORTH buying organic

These items are not worth buying organic because they require fewer pesticides to grow. They retain little to no residue after washing. Peels on bananas and other fruit further reduce exposure.

FRUIT
Bananas, Kiwis, Mangoes, Papayas, Pineapples, Oranges

VEGETABLES
Asparagus, Avocados, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Sweet Corn, Sweet Peas

MEAT/DAIRY
Seafood

OTHER
Processed Foods (chips, pasta, etc.), Cosmetics, Cleaning Products

Alternative Ideas

If you cannot afford organic meat, consider antibiotic- or hormone-free meat. Though the animals may have eaten regular feed, they meet the other half of organic requirements.

Look for sales on organic items.

Local farmers / farmer's markets can be a great place to buy organic.

10 Excellent, Nutrient-packed Food Choices for less than $1 per serving
(from Mercola.com)

1. Two Cage Free Organic Eggs: $0.84
2. Raw Organic Milk, 8 oz. $0.62
3. Raw Nuts and Seeds:
Sunflower Seeds, raw, 1 oz. = $0.82
Mixed raw nuts, ½ oz. = $1.00
4. Berries: 1 cup fresh organic blueberries = $0.95
Blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, and raspberries are all rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. They are very good for you.
5. Watermelon: One pound slice = $0.59
6. Coconut Milk: 7 oz. = $0.98
7. Spinach: 5 oz. fresh organic spinach = $0.95
8. Garlic: 2 cloves = $0.05
9. Wild Rice: One serving = $0.99
10. Krill Oil: Two capsules = $0.84

To get more detailed information concerning the benefits of these foods go to: Mercola.com