Organic Guide

We try to buy mostly organic. When possible. Since those with compromised immune systems (food allergies, asthma, autoimmune disease, autism spectrum) have a hard time flushing toxins, it only makes sense to limit exposure. According to the Environmental Working Group, we can reduce our pesticide exposure by 80% by avoiding the most contaminated fruits and vegetables. Here is the "dirty dozen" list, updated for 2010: meat (eggs), blueberries, strawberries, peaches, celery, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, kale, potatoes, carrots, apples, lettuce, pears, tomatoes. In addition to the dirty dozen, I would recommend buying the following organic to avoid genetically modified food: soy, corn, canola, tomatoes, potatoes, squash, carrots, sugar beets, papaya, wheat, rice (notice potatoes, tomatoes, and carrots are a double threat!).

Luckily for our pocketbooks, there are "clean" foods that you don't have to buy organic: onions, avocados, pineapple, mangoes, asparagus, sweet peas, kiwi, cabbage, eggplant, watermelon, broccoli, and sweet potatoes.

My organic shopping tips: Plant a garden. Organic seeds are available at Home Depot and Walmart. It will save you so much money. The following stores have the best prices on organic goods: Trader Joe's, Costco, Fresh n Easy, Target, Walmart (very limited selection), and Sprouts. I also occasionally get an organic produce basket from our local co-op. Click HERE to see if they are available where you are.

Costco has gotten so many organic options lately: chicken, hummus, carrots, lettuce, spinach, chicken broth, rice milk, frozen peaches, brown rice, canned tomatoes, strawberry jam, apples, tortilla chips, eggs, agave syrup, and more. Things I stock up on at Trader Joe's: organic brown rice pasta, organic canned tomatoes (the price can't be beat), organic canned pumpkin, organic turbinado sugar, rice milk, and produce.

Also, I have recently discovered a company called Azure Standard that has a lot of organic options (including bulk) for amazing prices. Oh, and the above picture is our garden. We are currently growing organic tomatoes, basil, cucumbers, cilantro, swiss chard, napa cabbage, green onions, kale, bok choy, lettuce, and beets.