Is organic food really more expensive?

VIDEO: Top 5 Reasons behind organic foods being more pricey on the next page.

There are several costs involved in gaining organic certification. Not only is there an annual fee, but some farms may have to hire additional employees to assist in daily record-keeping or make modifications to their land and equipment in order to comply.

Overall, certified organic cropland and pasture accounted for about 0.6 percent of U.S. total farmland in 2008, according to United State Department of Agriculture. I could not find numbers for 2009 or 2010

Of course we all have that crazy aunt or uncle in the family who says they refuse to pay more money for organic food, and then cite how they have been eating the same things for the last 50 years. While this may be the case, study after study has shown that organic food is healthier for you than regular foods. These foods while free of chemicals and pesticides also contain more essential nutrients our bodies need.

The misleading savings of fast food may cause some to believe that cheap meals lacking nutritional value are their only options. At a time when Americans are clinging to their every dollar, however, fast food is absolutely not an efficient use of resources. While “dollar meals” offered at many fast food establishments promise savings, they actually tax both the wallet and the body. When the body does not receive nutrient-rich food, it simply calls out for more. Extra-large french fries and soda may seem to satisfy, yet they are really just overworking the organs without providing vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health. In addition, the empty meal leaves the consumer unsatisfied, lethargic and looking to eat (and spend) again shortly thereafter. Less food will satisfy the body’s needs when a meal consists of organic whole foods, grains, fruits and vegetables.

When the colder months move in, be sure to do research on where you can find organic products at a reasonable cost in your area. Many people assume that these products have to be very expensive, but with a little self-education, there are numerous ways you can find organic food at great prices.

The American health care system has become a “sick care” system in which citizens pay more than in almost any other country (15% of our economy) only to count themselves among the most unhealthy people in the industrialized world. According to recent statistics, one third of Americans is obese, and countless others suffer from preventable chronic diseases. These days, amid threats of losing health coverage, perhaps the safest and most effective source of health insurance is prevention.

Buying organic can actually save money, with a little know-how: 1) Buy in season. Notice how much watermelon costs in December? Seasonal produce costs less. 2) Join a CSA. Community Supported Agriculture groups abound throughout the country. Members prepay for vegetable shares from an organic farm and pick up the freshest possible produce, as it is often harvested that morning or the night before. (localharvest.org contains information about CSAs). 3) Buy in bulk. Stock up on frozen or canned organics when they go on sale, and save on expensive packaging by purchasing from bulk bins. 4) Get support. Don’t know where to start? Take a healthy cooking class or seek out a health professional who can steer you toward a healthier lifestyle.