How to Green Your Groceries and Save Money

Many people have the notion that buying organic foods and produce, or green friendly household products, simply cost too much money. While this is true to some extent - Whole Foods can really take it out of your paycheck - you can find good deals and green your groceries at the same time. It all comes down to where and how you shop. If you look in the right places, you can actually reduce your grocery bill while buying products that are better for the planet.

Shop the Farmer's Market

You can find organic fruits and vegetables at the farmer's market for a cheaper price than the grocery stores. Larger markets also sell baked goods, meats, dairy products and dried and frozen produce. Best of all, when you shop at a farmer's market, you support the local farmers in your area. Most farmer's markets are open once or twice a week, typically on weekends. You will need to bring your own bags and cash.

Buy Local

Buying local products helps keep money in your state and supports your local community. Local products also help the environment by reducing packaging waste and fuel from transportation. You can find local products just about everywhere you look - from small privately owned stores to big grocery chains. Many local products also carry a seal showing they were made and packaged in your state.

Buy in Bulk

Buy items you use frequently in bulk. It takes less packaging to box up and sell bulk items, meaning less waste overall. You'll also save money buying larger sizes. Some big bulk stores also sell organic products or green friendly lines. For example, Sam's Club sells their own line of environmentally friendly cleaning products. They also sell organic produce and popular organic dog food brands like Buddy Biscuits.

Look for Eco Friendly When Buying Non-Food Items

Don't forget your environmentally friendly mindset when shopping for household items like toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, toothpaste or anything else you buy. With the increasing popularity of the green movement, many national grocery stores have begun to carry natural and organic brands. For cleaning and paper products, most stores carry Seventh Generation and Mrs. Meyers. For personal products you can find Tom's of Maine, Jason's, or Kiss my Face. Some stores even carry their own line of green friendly products. Winn Dixie sells the Winn Dixie Naturals line, which includes everything from organic peanut butter to coffee filters.