Organic vs. Non-Organic: Tips & Tricks on Where to Spend the Extra Dollar (and Where You Can Save)

May 22

Let’s be real — trying to eat “healthy” already feels like a full-time job sometimes. Add in the organic label, and suddenly you’re staring at $8 strawberries and wondering if they’re going to give you superpowers or just drain your wallet.

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to buy everything organic to eat well or take care of your body. The key is knowing where it makes a difference and where you can save that extra dollar without guilt.

🌱 When It’s Worth Going Organic

Some foods are just way more exposed to pesticides or chemicals, especially if you’re eating the skin or the whole thing raw. That’s where going organic can really count.

These are the ones I try to buy organic when I can:

The Dirty Dozen (a list that comes out each year with the most pesticide-heavy produce). Right now, that includes things like strawberries, spinach, kale, apples, and grapes — basically, thin-skinned fruits and veggies you eat as-is.
Leafy greens that I eat raw — like arugula, spring mix, and herbs.
Animal products — when possible, I try to go organic or at least hormone/antibiotic-free for meat, eggs, and dairy.
Baby food or stuff for kids — they’re more sensitive to toxins, so it’s worth being a little extra cautious when you can.

Where You Can Totally Save:

Not everything needs to be organic. If you’re peeling it, cooking it, or it’s on the “Clean 15” list (produce with the least pesticide residue), you’re fine to buy conventional and save some money.

Some of my go-to “save” items:

Avocados, bananas, melons, onions, mangoes — anything with a thick peel.
Carrots, sweet potatoes, frozen corn, mushrooms — all low-residue and budget-friendly.
Pantry basics like rice, oats, pasta, canned beans
Frozen fruits and veggies, unless it’s something like spinach or berries that I eat daily.

💡 A Few Shopping Tips:

Frequency matters: If you eat apples every day, maybe grab those organic. If you eat peaches once a month? No biggie.
Check the freezer aisle: Organic frozen spinach or berries can be cheaper than fresh.
Look for deals: Some stores have store-brand organic options that are way more affordable.
Talk to local farmers: A lot of them use organic practices but skip the expensive certification.

Bottom line? You don’t need to go broke to eat better. Spend where it matters, and skip the stress where it doesn’t. It’s all about balance — just like everything else.