Organic Lifestyle on a Budget - The Healthy Home Cook

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Are you searching for simple ways to eat organic on a budget? Lucky for you, below there are 10 great tips that will help you achieve this goal!

I can't tell you how often I wish healthy, clean, organic eating were possible for everyone. I do understand that the hustle of life, where you live and unforeseeable circumstances come in the way more often than not. However, the number one reason I hear as to why people don't purchase organic is because they feel it’s too expensive. What I think most people don’t realize, though, is how it actually might be possible for them.

In reality, eating organic does not have to mean purchasing hundreds of dollars of groceries every week. You can eat a mostly organic diet by using smart shopping tactics and planning your meals ahead. Below are 10 tips that I find very helpful when it comes to purchasing organic items on a budget.

Prioritize items your family consumes:

When it comes to purchasing organic, you want to make sure you prioritize what your family actually enjoys eating. My family does not eat a lot of meat each week, so our budget often goes more towards fruits and vegetables. But, if meat is something your family loves, try cutting back on other items that may not be necessary.

One thing I make sure to prioritize is tea. I live on tea! If you and your family love it, like mine does, then you want to make sure you purchase Honest® Tea. Honest Tea is organic and fair trade. I personally love the Organic Peach Tea and Organic Half Tea & Half Lemonade flavors. They are refreshing and just a tad sweet, nothing overwhelming. It's the perfect drink to grab and go.

Buy in-season:

With fruits and vegetables, it pays off to buy seasonal. Buying organic asparagus for $5 in January is not necessary. Those $5 can get you a 4 lb bag of carrots or potatoes.

Another option- If you love to make smoothies but the fruit you like is not in-season, buy it in the frozen aisle.

Buy the store brand organic:

When shopping, always check for the store brand version of your favorite organic items. They are usually cheaper.

Shop bulk bins:

Shopping in the bulk bins is a smart way to cut costs. Plus, you don't have to buy a big box of quinoa if you are not sure you'll like it. It's a great way to try out new products you haven't tasted or cooked with before.

Coupons/Store Apps:

This is not for everyone, but clipping coupons or downloading store apps is another way to purchase organic items on a budget. I know I don't always have time to sit down and search for coupons, but if you do, go for it!

Farmers Markets:

While you may not be able to find all the items on your list, you should be able to find some cheap organic produce at your local farmers markets.

Make meal menus for week/Buy only what u need for week:

I can not say enough how important it is to plan out meals. Once you do, you will find that your grocery bill will be drastically cut down. You will no longer be making random purchases, which will allow you to save more money for the organic products you want.

Save food:

This may be hard if you have a family of growing boys who eat everything in their path. But if you are able to, save as much food from each meal as possible. I can’t tell you how many times I have silently watched people throw out food...it drives me crazy. I know my kids don’t always finish their dinner. But, you better believe I save as much as I can off their plates.

Know your Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen:

Learn what is important in organic form, and what you can still buy in conventional form. The "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" are conventionally grown 12 items that retain most pesticides and 15 with the least amount. It will help you spend your money much more wisely.

Keep it simple:

As much as I love to cook and experiment with different ingredients, I have also learned that not every meal has to have a meat, side dish, vegetable, starch, etc. I try to keep it simple and healthy. One pot dishes are a great option to keep the budget down.