need help going organic

[Jenny1231]

Hi everyone!

I've been looking into organic foods and have heard different things.
First, I was under the impression that it is not necessary to buy all fruits and vegetables organic. Can't I just wash them really well?
Also, the meats are soooo expensive.
What are some important tips if you don't have a lot of money to spend?
Do I need to buy all food organic like, cereals, snacks, etc.? I would assume the most important items would be milk, meats, and those vegetables that are difficult to wash well.

If anyone has a good website to share that would be great!

[frogguruami]

If you do a search for the most contaiminated fruits and veggies you will get a list of the things you want to get organic above all else.

I started going organic by starting with dairy and I cut back my meat consumtion considerably. I was vegetarian for a while. Now I will eat organic, free range meat, game meat and wild seafood. Due to the cost I only eat meat once a week or so. Making things from scratch is a good way to save money. I make all our bread now. The bread machine helps out!!

I would suggest that you look at what makes up the majority of your diet and start with that. If something is out of the budget them try eliminating it or reducing it from your diet. That will also free up some additional budget for those higher organic prices.

Also shop around. I have found that Target carries many organic products that are only a few pennies more than non organic. It makes the trip to Target worth the time and gas.

You can also see if you have an organic coop in your area. You may be able to save money that way. Check and see if there are any farms in your area to. You can often by direct from farms. We have farms that produce dairy, meat and produce most of the year.

AM

[Dena]

All of AM's suggestions are terrific. I would just add:

What we do mostly for meat, as organic meat is SO expensive, is to buy free range, hormone and antibiotic free meat. That way, you are at least not getting the added hormones and antibiotics, which, imo, are the worst offenders in our meat supply. The same goes for cheese and eggs. Oh, and most European countries have banned RbST in their meats and cheeses, so imported cheese is mostly safe.

We have also cut our meat consumption significantly. And I cook with a lot of dried beans, which I buy organic in bulk from our local health food store. A rice and bean dish is a complete protein, and can be made for pennies. Together with a vegetable, it makes a very satisfying meal. I would recommend Vegetarian Planet as an awesome veggie cookbook.

I do buy mostly organic produce, and, as AM said, there is a list of the most toxic foods online.

Do you have a Trader Joe's in your area? They have some excellent prices on organic produce, breads, etc., as well as some great informational pamphlets. And most of the mainstream grocery stores are carrying organic produce now too.

Good for you for doing this - it is a great investment in your health. It takes some time to change your diet around, but once you have, it becomes second nature. Good luck!!

[quantumleap]

To simplify further, that list of the most toxic fruits and veggies is very easily found under "The Dirty Dozen" in an internet search.
And, we're vegetarians, but, from what I've read/understand meat and dairy are some of the most important foods to buy organic. I certainly believe it. They are expensive though. I keep hoping society will catch on that organic is better and make it more mainstream, thereby making it cheaper.
I hear rumours that Walmart is also launching a line of organics. And, if you have any sort of dirt, or even space for a few pots, growing your own is fairly simple. You don't have to be an expert, just chuck in some compost and some seeds/plants, and things manage to grow despite the level of care they receive (or don't!).
Washing fruits and veggies does not get rid of the pesticides and other crap on food. Many fruits and veggies absorb and/or integrate the chemicals into the flesh, not just the outer layer (especially root vegetables).
There's no law that says you need to jump into organics with both feet right now, small steps are perfectly acceptable.
Best,
Katia

[Diane~KJ]

everyone has given wonderful advice already. I'll just echo some things that worked for me. I started simple and just with things I consumed more, like dairy and fruits and veggies. That is a huge start right there and you are making a difference just by doing that. I could not afford organic meat, so I just cut back a great deal. I'm mostly vegetarian anyways. Good luck!