The key to buying organic on a budget is to shop smart;
Enter the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen.
The Dirty Dozen refers to the twelve crops that feature the highest amounts of pesticide residue, so these are the ones to buy organic when possible. Strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, potato, capsicum.
The Clean Fifteen refers to the fifteen crops with the lowest levels of pesticide contamination and therefore do not need to be purchased organic. Avocado, corn, pineapple, cabbages, onions, peas, papaya, asparagus, mango, eggplant, honeydews, kiwis, cantaloupes, cauliflower, broccoli.
The next trick is to pay close attention to what is in season.
Why does it matter?
If you are looking for one simple way to boost your health and wellbeing - just eat seasonally!
Buying seasonal produce means it will be more affordable, more nutritious and will even be better for the environment. Mother Nature always has your back. In-season foods will also give you exactly what your body needs most at that time of year.
Warming and immune boosting foods in winter. Hydrating foods that help to protect your skin from UV ray damage in summer. Natural medicine at its best!
To find out what is in season for you right now, click here.
It is highly likely some of the rows of your supermarket are looking a little post-apocalyptic. The good news is that now is the perfect opportunity to explore new sources of produce. I encourage you to shift your focus from large chain supermarkets to local producers. This will not only mean you are getting fresher and more nutritious produce delivered straight to your door but you will also be supporting small business and boosting your local economy. Buying organic, sustainable or grass-fed produce this way is also likely to be far cheaper than any organics range at the supermarket.
If you are unsure what local produce is available around you simply google "farm/organic/sustainable produce delivery for * your location * ".
Here are some suppliers that we love for Sydney and the Southern Highlands.
Community Organics (Eastern Suburbs only)
Doorstep Organics (Sydney)
Hillview Farm (Sydney)
Vital Organics (Sydney)
The Free Range Butcher (Sydney)
Maugers Meats (Southern Highlands)
Also, if you are lucky enough to have any outdoor space now could be the perfect time to create your very own little organic veggie garden. Growing your own food is a beautiful process that is nourishing for more than just your belly. If this is something you are interested in we have an "Gardening 101" series saved in our highlights @LifeAtSpringfield.
Don't forget to eat the rainbow!
Cheers,
Team Springfield x