How to shop the organic aisle

(NC) Whether it’s to enjoy a better taste, avoid chemicals or preserve our environment, more people are looking for organic products at the grocery store. So what are your options?

There is a wide array of organic fruits and vegetables available in the produce aisle. While organic produce can sometimes be more expensive than non-organic offerings, the trick is to buy produce when it’s in season. Not only is it more affordable, it’s at its peak of taste and freshness. You can extend your enjoyment of seasonal produce by buying extra and freezing it; berries (especially strawberries and blueberries) are excellent and easy choices for freezing.

A good rule of thumb is to follow the produce guide released each year by the Environmental Working Group. The guide lists the “Dirty Dozen” — fruits and vegetables with the most pesticide residues — and the “Clean Fifteen” — fruits and vegetables in which few, if any, residues were detected. Use these lists to identify healthier choices for you and your family.

There are lots of organic options along with fruit and vegetables. Some of the many available non-perishable organic options include peanut butter, bread, crackers, pasta, rice, energy and granola bars, dairy products, salad dressings, dips and cereals.

Organic food products must be certified, so look for the Canada Organic logo to be sure the foods you’re buying are made up of at least 95 per cent organic ingredients. The logo is your assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures and rules and are in compliance with Canada’s Organic Products Regulations.

Head to your local Canadian Health Food Association member health food store to stock up on organic foods. Find your nearest location at chfa.ca.