Go Organic

Yes, it is expensive, but in our family we have tried to go organic. The more that we learn, the happier we are with this decision. Why? Frankly, because we are not comfortable with the amount of chemicals, pesticides, and genetically modified ingredients in many non-organic foods.

So in our family that means we always try to eat & buy organic. We figure, the cost is worth it in the long run. You might be surprised how many organic companies now exist, and we have found that many of these companies produce some of the best, most reliable, dependable, and reasonable products we use. If you need more convincing check out a recent NY Times article entitled “Five Reasons to Go Organic”

What are mom’s favorite organic food products? Gerber Organic, Nature’s Path, Earthbound Farms, Amy’s, Cascadian Farm, Health Valley, Horizon, Stonyfield, and Earth’s Best, Tom’s Natural Toothpastes & Deodorants, and Seventh Generation (to name just a few).

We love organic products, and although we admit they are expensive, we feel better about eating them.  When this mom shops down each aisle I keep looking for good and reliable organic products:

In the “fresh food aisle”

Earthbound lettuces are a must. They have a variety of good lettuces including mesclun, mache, romaine, baby leaves, etc. They are fresh, healthy, organic, and good!

Sunshine grape tomatoes are great for young children, kids, and adults alike. Either pop them in your mouth or put them whole in salads or pastas.

Organic apples, oranges, bananas, strawberries, grapes, and berries are also a must. These products are even better if you can get them from a local farmer’s market. If you want to know why, read Omnivore’s Dilemmaabout how and why to choose local, fresh, and if possible organic foods. We love squashes and all sorts of potatoes, which is an easy meal with steamed brocolli and cheese.

In the Meat Aisle

If you can find gourmet sausages, organic chicken, and/or any Apple Farm products - BUY THEM. They are made without pesticides or antibotics, which is very important in this day and age.

In the Grains/Rice/Pasta/Soup Aisle

Barilla Organic Pastas, Cous Cous, Newman’s Products, and Amy’s Products (including soups and pastas) are a hit in our family.

In the Bakery Aisle

Of course we love Lindt & Ghiradelli chocolates and Hodgen’s Mill products (they have great muffin mixes and organic flours).

In the Baby Aisle

We love the baby Earth’s Best products, they are organic and taste good! Increasingly, Gerber also has a good organic line of baby foods.

In the Cereal Aisle

We like the ever increasing organic varieties of everyday cereals (including Cheerios) and Health Valley Granola and Granola Bars.