Posted: 07.28.2011

Today’s shoppers can choose from an increasing array of foods labeled organic. But while organic foods continue to grow in popularity, they often seem to come with a higher price tag.

Organic food production is strictly regulated by the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA). Farmers cannot use synthetic pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics, genetic engineering, chemical fertilizers or waste products in the growing process. And organic foods must come from farms that have been certified organic by the USDA. All these requirements can boost the cost of producing foods with the organic label.

But if having some organic foods in your diet is important to you, there are ways to fit them into your food budget, says Shelley King-Curry, a nutrition program specialist with Cooperative Extension’s Family Living Programs.

Money-saving tips for buying organic aren’t that different from tips for buying conventional foods, according to King-Curry. “First, prioritize why it is important for you to buy organic vs. nonorganic,” she says. “Consider what you eat regularly. What health gains do you hope to achieve? Do you want organics to avoid pesticides, growth hormones or antibiotics in foods?”

King-Curry recommends choosing organic for foods you eat frequently to help you meet health goals.

“Buy in bulk,” she says. “As with conventionally produced foods, buying larger amounts is a common way to save because the unit price of the item is less. This strategy works as long as you use all that you buy.”

Other ways to save include buying fruits and vegetables in season. Consider buying from local farmers through community-supported agriculture groups or at farmers’ markets where prices may be cheaper.

“Search the store sales for your go-to items and favorites and then stock up on them,” says King-Curry. “Purchase shelf-stable items such as canned goods, frozen foods and cereals to stretch your food dollars.”

With the popularity of organic foods on the rise, some stores are developing their own organic brands and carrying private labels that are often lower-priced than national brands, says King-Curry. Check websites for your favorite organic food brands and special deals. Many brands and stores now host social networking sites where you can find specials not advertised elsewhere.

Finally, clip coupons and review your overall food budget, says King-Curry “Ask yourself, ‘Are there foods I’m buying that aren’t being eaten? How much am I spending on nonessential or less nutritional items that could be removed so more dollars could be available for organic food?’”

Think about what you might be able to give up or do differently, such as preparing more meals at home and eating out less often, or relying less on convenience foods, she says. Those decisions can help make more money available for organic food purchases and other foods needed in your diet to reach your health goals.

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