This article first appeared in our Organic September 2024 issue of My Green Pod Magazine. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox
Shopping organically doesn’t have to (and shouldn’t) break the bank.
We’re still navigating the cost-of-living crisis, and looking for ways to shop as cost-effectively as possible.
As a family-run organic dairy brand, Yeo Valley Organic is, predictably, passionate about all things organic. It believes Organic September is a great time for everyone to learn more about organic farming – including its costs and benefits – and how we can further democratise organic living.
‘Organic’ refers to a method of farming and food production that emphasises natural processes and sustainability.
Organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals, such as pesticides and fertilisers, and instead relies on natural alternatives, crop rotation and composting to maintain soil health and fertility.
Organic livestock are raised without routine antibiotics or growth hormones and have access to outdoor spaces.
The aim is to promote ecological balance and conserve biodiversity, while adhering to stringent standards set by certifying bodies such as the Soil Association.
As a result, food is made in a way that puts nature first.
GOING ORGANIC
Here are four ways Yeo Valley Organic says anyone can participate in Organic September, whatever the budget:
1. Get your fingers green
If you want to be truly certain about the origins of a product, why not grow your own? Despite the UK’s seemingly awful weather, much of the food we enjoy every day can be grown on home turf.
Gardening can be a fun and rewarding activity for the whole family. If you have children, it would be a great opportunity for them to learn more about the organic movement, with the reward of growing and nurturing your own food to enjoy.
You don’t need access to an allotment for great results; with a few planters and pots, a small balcony can become a flourishing herb garden in no time.
Growing your own produce lets you know exactly what goes into your food and can reduce your grocery bill.
2. Plan your meals
We all lead busy lives and planning ahead can help you to stay organised. Meal planning is also an easy way to ensure you are incorporating a higher number of organic products into what you cook each week.
At the start of the week, plan out all the meals you will cook and work out what ingredients you need. This way, you won’t be overwhelmed by the different options when you’re in the supermarket, and you will likely have far less leftover or wasted food at the end of the week.
If you need some recipe inspiration, Yeo Valley Organic has listed some of its favourites on its website, ranging from showstoppers and seasonal specials to speedy suppers.
3. Shop local
You don’t need to visit a boutique farm shop to find organic goodies: many supermarkets now stock a wide range of organic products, and buying from your usual store will make the swap in your weekly food shop more intuitive.
Look for organic options in every aisle, from fresh produce to pantry staples. This approach can help you incorporate more organic items into your diet without making a separate trip to a (potentially more expensive) store.
4. Join an organic community
It’s much easier to change habits when you have a support group. If your local area doesn’t have an organic community group, why not set one up?
Sharing tips and tricks on how to get the best organic products at good prices can be invaluable.
You could also all chip in and bulk-buy products to reduce costs, making organic living more accessible and affordable for everyone involved.
Yeo Valley Organic co-founder Mary Mead OBE reflects on her role in the journey of Britain’s largest organic brand.
Yeo Valley Organic reveals five ways anyone can participate in Organic September.
Yeo Valley Organic’s Tim Mead explains why one of the answers to our climate crisis could be right under our feet.
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