Organics on a budget

One of the main arguments people have against buying organic food is that it tends to be more expensive than regular food. In actual fact intensive farming methods have resulted in a decrease in the cost of regular food over the last few decades and organic food prices are much more representative of the true value of good quality food.

This argument aside, it can still be difficult for people to afford organic foods on a budget but, as the following ideas demonstrate, there are ways to minimise the costs:

1. Buy direct

Buying organic food direct from the producer or wholesaler cuts out the middle-man this often keeps costs down and also increases financial returns for the grower.

2. Form a food co-operative

Small groups of people can form co-operatives in order to buy bulk foods and household items at discounted prices from wholefood distributors.

3. Grow your own

Money can be saved by growing organic fruit and vegetables in the garden.

4. Buy in season

Buying fresh produce in season helps to reduce costs.

5. Reduce intake of animal products and processed foods

When switching to a healthy diet money will be saved by cutting down on the amount of animal products purchased and avoiding convenience foods.

6. Increase intake of pulses and wholegrains

Dried pulses (peas, beans, lentils) and whole grains (rice, millet, barley, oats etc.) are nutritious and very cheap. They can be cooked or sprouted and used in salads, stir-fries, soups and stews.

7. Choose cheaper cuts of meat

We have become accustomed to purchasing the most expensive cuts of meat such as chicken breasts in favour of cheaper cuts such as chicken thighs. One way to save money on organic meat is to try the cheaper cuts. With the correct preparation and a good recipe these can taste just as delicious.

<<Choosing organic produce

Links>>