How To Buy Organic Without Going Into Debt!

If you’ve walked down the produce aisle at the grocery store, no doubt you’ve noticed the price difference between organic fruits and vegetables and conventional produce. The price difference is unfortunate as many of us would choose to buy organic if it was more budget-friendly. Here’s how you can buy organic without going broke:

1. Utilize Rewards

Most grocery stores are jumping on the loyalty card bandwagon. Sign up for a rewards card with your local grocery store, if you don’t have one already, and start taking advantage of the savings. Scan your local flyer when it comes in the mail and construct your shopping list. Often times, you can save money on organic produce by using these handy little cards.

2. Farmer’s Market

Do a bit of online research and see if you have any local farmers’ markets. Not only do these stores stock organic fruits and vegetables for better prices, but they also support the local economy. Farmer’s markets can sell produce more cheaply because they buy from local farmers, eliminating the middle-man. For even better deals, ask the manager about any seconds, or misshapen foods, or about buying in bulk.

3. Pick Your Own

Many cities have orchards and farms where guests can pick their own produce. Check to be sure that these orchards utilize organic farming methods and then head out! Take the kids along and spend a day in the fresh air, picking your own produce. You may be required to pick several bushels but take heart: you can freeze what you won’t use or try your hand at canning.

4. Join a Co-op

A co-op is a business owned by its members that provides organic produce at a discount price. You may net better discounts if you volunteer to work on the farm or in the orchard a day or two a month. You may need to pay dues but the savings you receive will far outweigh any monies you put in. For a list of co-ops near you, check out sites like Local Harvest and Cooperative Grocer. If there are none nearby, start your own!

5. Buy in Bulk

Like with every other product, buying organic groceries in bulk can save you big money. Instead of buying organic beans and grains by the box, buy them by the pound. The larger containers of these items are a far better deal. Do, however, be sure to add up the cost. Compare what you will be spending on the bulk container to an equal amount of smaller packages.

6. Buy In-Season

Each bit of produce has its own season. When you buy in-season, you will save substantially. If you can, buy large amounts of in-season fruits and vegetables and freeze what you won’t eat immediately. Foods like corn, green beans and even strawberries last wonderfully for months in the freezer. And what better way to have a taste of summer in the dead of winter than with a beautiful strawberry shortcake made with organic berries?

7. Grow Your Own

If you want to save the most money on your organic groceries, consider growing your own. Research organic gardening and try your hand at growing your own vegetables this year. By planting seeds, you’ll often be paying pennies on the dollar for the same amount that you would buy in the store.

Going organic doesn’t mean you have to break the budget. With smart shopping skills and a bit of ingenuity, you can buy organic without spending a ton of cash.

Author’s Bio

Andy Trace is a money consultant and content contributor for www.FinanceChoices.co.uk a site offering detailed comparisons for the top providers, and side by side features like fees for balance transfers.