Organic food is now widely available at most grocery stores, whether local or chain or small or large stores. When wandering the aisles, you might come across a tomato without any organic branding (i.e. a tomato grown using conventional methods), and a metre away you might see a crate full of tomatoes labelled as ‘organic’. The first difference you might observe between these two products is that the organic tomatoes are quite a bit more expensive than the non-organic tomatoes. Don't forget to check out Varun Venaik   Given that organic food is often more expensive than produce grown via conventional methods, a query raised by many people is whether consuming organic food will ‘break the bank’. In this article I explain why it doesn’t need to, and provide tips for how you can buy organic food and reap the many benefits of such food affordably.  

Look for discounted or on sale products

Large grocery stores will often have certain organic food on special or at a discounted price, for example food that has an imminent expiry date or is overripe. If you are prepared to consume this food immediately or in the next few days, buying these discounted products can be an excellent way to save money whilst still reaping the benefits of organic food.   Another excellent tip is to buy food that is slightly overripe or about to expire and then freeze it for consumption later.  

Buy from smaller retailers or farmer’s markets

  Organic food that is sold at smaller retailers or at farmers’ markets is likely to be cheaper than organic food sold at the major grocery store chains. By buying from smaller retailers or farmer’s markets you are also supporting local suppliers / producers.  

Buy organic food that is in-season

  Organic food that is in season is likely to be much more affordable than out of season organic food, because there is an abundance of it being grown. It is likely to also be of better quality and fresher.  

Buy in bulk or buy ‘odd’ shaped produce

  Many retailers will offer organic food in bulk, which will allow you to get a substantial amount of food at a lower per unit price. It’s a great idea to buy these bulk boxes and then freeze whatever you can’t use in the next few days. Many suppliers also charge a lower price for ‘odd’ shaped produce which can’t sell at the same price as regular shaped produce. You’re getting all the same benefits with these odd-shaped products so it’s a great idea to buy them instead to save money.

Grow your own food

If you’re lucky enough to own or rent a house with a decent sized backyard, you may wish to consider growing your own organic produce. Buy some seeds or grow from scraps and you’ll be starting your own farm to table journey in no time!   Also Read: