Organic produce, meat and dairy products can cost 50 to 100 percent more than their conventionally grown counterparts, but even in a faltering economy, organic food sales continue to grow. The Organic Trade Association says food sales grew 15 percent in 2008, and the industry is expected to grow another 18 percent in the next year.
There’s no conclusive evidence that organic food is healthier than conventionally grown food, but researchers at the University of Washington found that kids who eat organic food have lower levels of pesticides in their blood than children who eat regular food.
According to a 2005 survey by Impulse Research, 44 percent of parents occasionally buy organic food, and 60 percent said they were willing to pay more for it. But few parents can afford to buy all organic food, so how can they know when it’s worth spending the extra money to buy organic?
To get the most bang for their buck, parents should consider these guidelines.
Produce, Dairy Are Good Bets
If parents are going to splurge in any one area, it should probably be on produce. Certain fruits and vegetables tend to have higher pesticide residues, even when washed thoroughly, such as those on the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list. The EWG says the following are must-buy organic items: apples, cherries, imported grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, raspberries, strawberries, bell peppers, celery, potatoes and spinach.
In general, if there is a thick skin covering the produce, such as with bananas, pineapples and corn, it’s fine to buy conventionally grown items, according to the EWG.
Organic dairy products are also a good investment. Environmental toxins collect in animal fat, so if a child is drinking whole milk or eating whole milk yogurt, then it’s probably worth it to spend the extra money on organic milk. Otherwise, look for milk that's growth-hormone-free (also known as rBVH-free or rBST-free); it’s cheaper than organic.
Splurge on Meat and Poultry, but Skip Fish and Grains
Organic meat and poultry come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones, are fed 100 percent certified organic feed, and graze in certified organic pastures. Consumer Reports says organic meat and poultry are worth buying, but skip the “organic” fish; the USDA hasn’t yet developed organic standards for seafood.
It’s probably not worth the added cost to buy organic grains either, since pesticide residues are relatively low even in conventionally grown grains. And just because chips or snacks are labeled “organic” doesn’t make them healthy.
More Ways to Save
To further stretch their budget, parents should look for sales and in-season fruits and vegetables. In addition, consider buying store-brand organic milk, yogurt and eggs, which tend to be cheaper than name brands. Farmers markets can be another source of bargains.
As an alternative to organic meat and poultry, try lean cuts of regular meat, which have less fat and therefore less pesticide residue. Also, consider antibiotic- or hormone-free foods, which are less expensive than organic.
Many organic grains and beans are cheaper when purchased in bulk. Just be sure to store them in a dry place, in an airtight container.
By knowing when to skimp and when to spend the extra money, parents can shop for organic foods without breaking the bank.
 |
