Buying Organic....Which May Be Worth the $$$$

Heading to the grocery store isn’t usually at the top of anyone’s highlight reel, and nowadays it seems that while the bag may be light, so is the wallet after heading thru the checkout. Groceries have gone up, and with more and more of us switching to organic substitutes, food costs can be downright outrageous. We seem to be a society constantly caught between cost, health and convenience. Organic sales are growing in Canada at about 20% per year, and can be a wise health choice. Here is a list of the “Dirty Dozen” fruits and veggies, where organic alternatives may be worth the extra $$$:
• LOSER: Peaches
• Apples, Sweet Bell Peppers, Celery, Nectarines, Strawberries, Cherries, Lettuce, Grapes (Imported), Pears, Spinach, Potatoes also make the offender list.
On the other end of the spectrum, you can save on the following that consistently test much cleaner:
• WINNER: Onions (less than 0.2% had pesticides)
• Avocado, Sweet (frozen) corn, Pineapple, Mango, Sweet (frozen) peas, Asparagus, Kiwi, Bananas, Cabbage, Broccoli, Eggplant
** For more specific info regarding these fruits and vegetables, please visit:
http://www.canadianliving.com/health/nutrition/pesticides_and_your_health_how_to_cut_your_exposure_2.php
** If you simply cannot afford organic, ensure you are buying fruit that is local and in season.
** Watch for the label “Natural”. This is NOT the same as organic and the term is not regulated.
** Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and carefully with warm running water.
** Read labels carefully, organic foods can be high is fat, sugar, salt or calories.
If you are going to make the decision to purchase what appears to be a better choice, ensure you are doing the research and reading the labels. There are so many great alternative grocery stores such as Planet Organic and options such as Farmers Markets. You only live once, take the best possible care of your body!