Shop on Amazon.com:
If you already know your favorite organic foods that you eat a lot of, why not purchase them in bulk on Amazon? You are saving money and hassle…and Amazon has a ridiculous number of organic and natural foods. By the way, this also works for those who do not have organic or natural food stores nearby. BUSTED! I’ve just eliminated another common reason I hear from people for why they are not buying naturals and organics.
Whole Foods “The Whole Deal” Newsletter: If you have a Whole Foods nearby, be sure to check out their monthly specials newsletter called "The Whole Deal". Go to the Whole Foods deals section of their website to check out the newsletter that they post online, so you know if it’s worth making a trip to catch your favorites on sale. And while we are on the topic of Whole Foods, be sure to check out their 365 brand. Most of the items are very good, and of course being a “generic” grocery store brand, there are cost savings!
Shop at Walmart (You Can Check Online First): OK, Walmart is not exactly the hub of organic foods, but if you haven’t been there recently, I bet you’d be surprised at some of the organic and natural foods they do have nowadays. As with everything at Walmart, they pretty much beat everyone else on price. But here’s the best part. They have a brand new “grocery” section of their website that allows you to search for an item to see if they carry it, and then use the locator to see if it’s available at your local Walmart. Pretty neat! I think they will eventually start selling their groceries online, but they haven't yet. I wrote them to ask if and when they might be available online but they haven’t written me back (lame!). Nevertheless, click here to see their new store locator function. I've found my favorite Oikos organic yogurt there as well as many Kashi and Amy’s items.
VitaCost.com, Drugstore.com: These are two other online sites that have good prices on natural and organic foods. They don’t have the all time best selection, but you aren’t required to purchase in bulk like you have to on Amazon.com, a great feature if you aren’t in the mood for buying a whole case or if you just want to sample something. These are great for Clif bars, Kashi, and Back to Nature items.
Trader Joe's: This is a pretty obvious one, but if you have a Trader Joe's nearby, buying all natural food is affordable. The only thing to watch out for with TJ’s is how many calories and fat they put in their foods. Sometimes it gets totally out of control, so be SURE to read the labels of the foods they carry.
Local Natural Stores: Sometimes doing a little homework goes a long way. A quick online search might point you to some really great local organic markets that have super prices. We have one nearby that is pretty much Disneyland for organic fruit, meats, vegetables and ethnic foods.
I know it might seem intimidating at first, especially if you are just thinking of making the switch, but just start small. Pick a few of the items you eat all the time and look for a natural or organic substitute. I rate and review many items on Calorista, so if you are looking for a description before you buy and try, check here. Amazon also has many customer ratings that are a big help.
Do you have any great tips of your own? Please share!
To see all of Calorista's healthier-option, low calorie food comparisons and articles, click here.
