I try to buy local produce as much as possible. Luckily my grocery store provides a rather small (but it's still there!) selection of local, organic produce. It is definitely pricier, but I feel absolutely fine paying a little extra for top quality fruits and veggies. However, just because it's local...it doesn't mean it's organic!
Something I constantly hear a lot about is the difference between organic and non organic produce. Many people (admittedly older people) feel that there is absolutely no difference and that organic farming is a scam to get more money for the same amount of product. Please do your research! I understand that organic food can be expensive, but so can the side affects of not eating organic. I admittedly opt out of an organic ingredient from a dish if I am really really tight for money. I believe I probably eat about 98% organic. Even if you only eat 70% organic...it's better than not eating organic at all!
A lot of people go for the non organic produce simply because it looks better. Non organic produce always seems "picture perfect". Everything is the same mega size, the perfect color. But is it really necessary? I like the little imperfections! I find that organic fruits and veggies have a much deeper, natural color. I have personally noticed that a lot of the non organic produce that is "picture perfect" seems to be tasteless. A great test to this...grab a few non organic strawberries, the ones that are the size of a chihuahua. You know which ones I am talking about. They are usually light red with white near the stem. Now, grab a couple of organic strawberries. They are noticeably smaller, but a deep red color. Slice into them. You'll notice a huge difference. Then, try them! If you can't tell the difference....you may want to get your taste buds examined. I'm just saying...
To be honest, I could never really taste the difference in organic fruits and veggies before I became a vegetarian a few years ago. But since I have cut out all of the nasties....WOW! So go for the test! See if you can tell the amazing difference!
Click on THIS link to find out the top 12 things you should ALWAYS eat organic and why!
What are your views on organic foods?
Be kind, be curious, be organic!
