Going organic doesn't have to mean going broke

• Follow the loss leaders. Grocery stores and specialty chains typically offer several heavily discounted items each week. Stock up on sale items in the organic section and build menus around them.

• Stay local. In-season and locally produced fruits and vegetables are usually cheaper than out-of-season items that have been imported.

• Wash it yourself. We pay a premium for veggies that are already washed, peeled or cut. When time allows, I save money with do-it-yourself washing, peeling and chopping of fruits and veggies. The savings are significant.

• Hit the freezer. I love organic blueberries, but when the out-of-season price spikes to $6.99 for six ounces, I go to the freezer aisle.

• Join an organic co-op. The produce bill has dropped by 30 percent due to the co-op, which purchases fruits and vegetables in bulk from local, organic farmers.