How to Understand the Advantages of Shopping at an Organic Foods Market

Although many standard grocery stores are offering organic products, organic foods markets provide a unique shopping experience. If you've never visited one of these specialty supermarkets, you may wonder if these stores are worth a special visit. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages to shopping at an organics food supermarket.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. A large selection of organic in one place.
   
   While you may find organic produce at your regular grocery store, the selection at an organics food market is unbeatable. You can find almost any standard fruit or vegetable grown organically as well as a variety of more unusual produce offerings. You'll not only find organically grown foods but organic clothing, make-up, and body supplies which aren't often carried in regular supermarkets. Not only can you buy organic groceries at but you can also pick up body care supplies at the same time.

2. A good source for locally grown foods.
   
   Many organics food markets place an emphasis on buying produce grown locally. This means lower transportation costs which makes locally grown foods fresher and more environmentally friendly. Plus, you're doing a good thing for the environment and local farmers when you buy locally grown produce.

3. It's a great way to broaden your culinary horizons.
   
   You can find interesting food items at organic foods markets that you won't find at your local grocery store including a variety of ethnic items. Many, such as Whole Foods Market, also place a variety of samples throughout the store so you can try it before you buy it. It's a great way to try new and exotic foods.

4. You have the option to buy in bulk.
   
   A great way to save money is to buy loose items in bulk. Many organic foods markets have bins where you can purchase a variety of items in bulk including nuts, whole grain, various flours, cereals, beans, snacks, and other food items. Buying in this manner can result in a significant cost savings over buying prepackaged.

5. They give back to the community.
   
   Many organic foods markets and organic co-ops give a portion of their profits back to the community to support various charitable programs. Some such as Whole Foods Market have a whole trade guarantee which ensures that producers get paid wages and produce their products using environmentally friendly methods. When you spend your money at many organics foods markets you're giving a portion to support good causes.

6. Not everything is healthy.
   
   It's easy to get lulled into believing that everything you purchase in an organics food market is healthy. Many items, although organic, are high in sugar and other sweeteners making it important to carefully read labels just as you do in your standard grocery store. If you're trying to control your weight, keep in mind that organic doesn't mean low calorie.

7. Price.
   
   At most markets that focus on organics you'll pay a premium price. This can sometimes be offset by the money you save buying items in bulk from the bins. On the plus side, as a generalization, you're purchasing healthier foods and a portion of your costs goes towards promoting good causes.

Tips & Warnings

• Organic foods markets such as Whole Foods allow you more options and choices for purchasing organic and can help you save money when you purchase bulk from the bins. If you're trying to stick to a budget, you may want to avoid buying staples at these stores and instead purchase produce and other unique items that might not be available at your local grocery store.