Buying organic on a budget
Perhaps you’ve wanted to go organic for a while, but your wallet says “Um, no.”
Tools are out there, though, that can help you be strategic about when to buy organic so you can save some cash.
The Environmental Working Group lists produce that tend to have more pesticides. Here are the top dozen:
1. Peaches
2. Apples
3. Sweet Bell Peppers
4. Celery
5. Nectarines
6. Strawberries
7. Cherries
8. Lettuce
9. Grapes (Imported)
10. Pears
11. Spinach
12. Potatoes
If you choose to go "conventional," stick with veggies and fruits that have lower pesticide levels like onions, bananas, avocados and kiwi.
Consumer Reports also has an article "When Buying Organic Pays (and Doesn't)" that could help you prioritize your spending.
Sample advice: Don't bother buying organic cosmetics. Says Consumer Reports: something can be labeled organic even if "it may be primarily water infused with only a small fraction of organic plant material."

That's just water, right?