Ask The Savvy Vegetarian: Vegetarian College Student Says Organic Food Is Too Expensive

Savvy Vegetarian News

Vol. 2, Issue 2, April 2004

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Dear Savvy Veg,

I'm a 4th year college student and I've been totally vegetarian for 2 years. I feel pretty healthy. What bothers me is the whole organic thing. On your site you really emphasize eating organic. I agree, but it's frustrating because where I live, organic food is hard to find and very expensive. There's a natural food store with some bulk grains & beans & some produce, but it's a 1/2 hr bus ride from where I live, and did I mention expensive? There's a supermarket near work, & I usually just pick up a few things on my way home. Mostly I eat supper at Taco Johns where I work and get a sandwich at the student union for lunch. So far I've stuck to being vegetarian without too much problem, but I guess I'd just like to know if I'm really harming my health by not eating all organic? What would you do in my situation? Laine In Michigan

Dear Laine,

Let's put this in perspective. Here you are, age 22 or thereabouts I guess, going to school full time, I assume, working, no car, and you implied you have a social life. You sound intelligent and thoughtful. You manage to be vegetarian under difficult conditions, and are maintaining good health. It's hard for me to say what I would do in your situation - at your age, I wasn't nearly as together!

But you asked for my advice, so here it is: First, do not worry, you're doing great. There are always higher ideals to reach for, but we also have our everyday lives in the real world. Though I applaud you for being concerned about it, don't fret about organic vs non-organic. It's just as important not to strain, to feel relaxed and happy, as it is to eat right. You are what you eat, but equally, if not more so, you are what you think, and the world is as you are, if that makes any sense.

Re: The cost of organic food: In dollars & cents at the check-out, organic food is more expensive, partly because of supply & demand. Organic agriculture also isn't subsidized the same way as conventional agriculture. Our tax dollars are going to support lower prices for food that is poisoning the environment and contributing to health problems. The real costs of conventional agriculture are much higher than organic; they're just hidden. In terms of long-term benefits to the environment, and our health, organic food is a bargain.

Finally, here's the but. Maybe after you graduate, you'll have more choices. But even though you may not be able to eat all organic food right now, there are always choices. For example, have you tried to get a job at the natural food store, or have you considered moving closer, and/or finding another means of transportation? Could you pack a lunch sometimes? How about sharing a house with other vegetarians, cooking & gardening together? Can you get together with others & share rides to a store that has better prices? Are there any farmers markets in your area? Let loose your creativity - try to think more about possibilities, and less of difficulties.

Thanks for visiting the site, and enjoy your lovely life.