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Trying to save money? 15 foods you don’t need to buy organic

By Brierley Wright, March 2, 2010 - 10:45am

Brierley asks: Do you buy organic? What foods do you think it's worth to save on and which do you spend more on for organic?

COMMENTS	POSTED
I buy organic! I do buy conventional oranges and bananas though... — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 8:02pm
I will always buy organic meats and dairy. However, I can not always afford to buy all organic fruits and vegetables, so I try to stay away from the items that are known to retain more pesticides. I am trying to start my own garden to offset the expense and give us more variety, but it is a long process. Stephanie — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 6:32pm
I always buy corn and soybean products organic because I'm concerned about avoiding genetically engineered foods as well as pesticides. In the US, any corn or soy that isn't organic or doesn't specifically say that it's GMO-free probably is GMO. — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 6:29pm
Hello I use the EWG guidelines as well but I also consider the volume and frequency that I use the item. So I buy organic tomatoes, sweet potatoes and watermelon because they are everyday foods for my family. I don't buy organic kale because we don't use it that often. Hope Damon, RD, CDE — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 6:10pm
It totally surprises me that tomatoes are on the the conventional list~ I wonder where bananas fit on the list? — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 5:55pm
I appreciate the article because I love to buy organic but also like to save money where I can. My advice about corn specifically is to stick to organic only because it is so heavily genetically modified. — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 5:50pm
The choice for me to buy organic isn't just about price. It's about a philosophy of protecting the soil, the water, and the air we all share with the rest of life on this planet. I won't buy nonorganic if I can help it, because that encourages a polluting mindset and growing style. The world does not need chemical agriculture. Period. If people buy organic according to what is on special, and learn to enjoy a variety of foods, that is another way to save money. Also anyone with a bit of property, space for some large pots, or a forward-thinking landlord can plant a garden and have organic produce almost free. Please, people, don't encourage any growers to depend on chemical farming. — Anonymous	03/09/2010 - 5:16pm
Alot of Veg's and Fruits can just be washed off well and be safe enough. As Fruits and Veg's. are sometimes costly, that is a savings right there. I definately do not do dairy unless it is organic. That is important, especially for women and children. Milk passes on antibiotics, etc. Too risky not to buy organic. Wild caught, flash frozen ocean fish (Alaskan, etc.) is good to eat. Watch Asia on the fish. Don't eat beef, only buffalo that is grass fed. Organic eggs are my choice. — Anonymous	03/05/2010 - 7:27pm
I eat organic as much as possible. I am a little concerned about these lists. On another list watermelon was on the list of highly contaminated by pesticide. So, you may be getting the same nutrients, but with more toxins. — Anonymous	03/04/2010 - 10:16pm
I buy almost all organic. My brother died of skin cancer at 25 years of age. I reduce my family's exposure to chemicals whenever possible, whether its on, in, or near my body. Part of the reason disease is lurking around every corner is because we've as a society arrogantly abused our bodies and the environment trying to create cheaper food faster and in mass quantities. Things I ESPECIALLY buy organic: Dairy (antibiotics and hormones just don't appeal to me) Meat (organic meats tend to be lower in fat and usually the animals were treated humanely, ie. free access to fresh air, room to roam, and fresh water) ALL FRUITS AND VEGGIES sure, some are less likely to have pesticide residue, but less simply isn't good enough for me. Look at organic fruits next to conventional. Notice how different they look? How did those conventional apples manage to be huge and shiny, and perfect in shape? Could it be they were genetically engineered? And perhaps radiated to keep their color and "freshness" during shipping? Hmmm.... Quite simply, all organic produce, bought locally and in season will taste better, be better for the environment, and your family. — Anonymous	03/04/2010 - 8:09pm