Ideal Bite

Scary-high organic food prices freaking you out?

Submitted by tmeronek on Wed, 10/29/2008 - 1:47am.

The Bite:

They're def enough to give you chills, so if you've only got a little extra to spend on organics, put it toward the produce items that tend to have more pesticide residue. Have no fear: Our list is here.

The Benefits:

Less bloodcurdling. Pesticides won't actually curdle your blood (as far as we know), but more than 80% of the most common pesticides are potentially carcinogenic.
Not freaking out other animals. Pesticides aren't just toxic to the intended pests - they can also harm other animals as well.
Averting bill-induced chills. Budgets are tight, so if you can only splurge a little on organic food, spend where it counts.

Personally Speaking:

We'd love to buy everything organic, but we usually don't have the cash to go all out. A few of us have pretty much memorized the Environmental Working Group's pocket guide (see below) as a result.

Wanna Try:

Top 10 produce you should buy organic:
1. Peaches
2. Apples
3. Bell Peppers
4. Celery
5. Nectarines
6. Strawberries
7. Cherries
8. Lettuce
9. Grapes (imported)
10. Pears

Environmental Working Group - downloadable guide with the worst and best produce, in terms of pesticide levels.
Eat Well Guide - find sustainable food in your area.

I would add a strawberry and a potato to this list.

Posted by: sat | April 22, 2009 at 12:35 PM

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Bang For The Bite

Since organic can cost more, and locally produced food is often better for the environment anyway (local and organic is best), being selective about your organic purchases can really help your wallet.