How to Find Cheap Organic Produce

Fresh Organic Vegetables

Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without any synthetic pesticides or other toxic chemicals and organic produce is often higher in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making organic foods the healthy choice both for your family and the environment. However, because organic farming is more labor intensive, and is not subsidized by the government like conventional farming is, organic fruits and vegetables can often be more expensive than their conventional counterparts. Here's a few tricks for finding healthy, ecologically friendly produce that is also light on the pocketbook.

Things You'll Need

• Farmer's market or roadside stands
• Supplies for canning, freezing or drying food
• Co-op membership
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) subscription
• A garden

Instructions

1. Shop locally because locally grown food is tastier and fresher than anything you'll find at the supermarket. Many small farms grow their crops organically or employ other sustainable methods. Shop at farmer's markets and roadside stands for some of the most delicious fruits and vegetables that you've ever had. Many farms may offer their products at a lower price if you pick your own. Shopping locally also reduces your carbon footprint and helps keep money in your local community.

2. Shop in season. Citrus, for example, comes into season in the late winter so, even if you don't live anywhere near a tropical climate, the oranges at the grocery store will be a little cheaper in January or February.

3. Keep an eye on the prices in the produce section and stock up when things go on sale. Many fruits and vegetables can be canned, frozen, or dried.

4. Join a natural foods co-operative. Every co-op is different. To become a member, you may have to either pay a yearly fee or make a one-time stock purchase to become a part-owner in the store. Benefits may include discounts off the shelf price or case discounts, member-only sales or coupons, or a yearly rebate check based on how much you buy. Many co-ops may also offer additional discounts or benefits if you volunteer your time to help out at the store. Co-ops offer a wide variety of organic produce and other natural food items, and many sell local produce as well.

5. Join a CSA, or Community Supported Agriculture program. A subscription to a CSA means that you are sponsoring a farm and, in return, you get a portion of the harvest, usually delivered once a week, either to your home or to a central drop-off location. Buying a share in a CSA may require a substantial initial investment (although some will allow you to pay it off in installments), but you'll get an entire season's worth of produce for much less money than you would pay in the supermarket.

6. Grow it yourself. The cheapest, freshest and tastiest produce is the stuff you grow yourself. If you don't have the yard space for a large vegetable garden, look into acquiring a community garden plot. Many plants, including tomatoes, peppers and strawberries, also grow well in containers out on the balcony. You can even grow herbs indoors in a sunny window year round.