EWG's (Environmental Working Group) Healthy Home Tips: Personal Care Products



EWG's (Environmental Working Group) Healthy Home Tips provide useful information in small doses.  I have found the Cosmetic Database provided by EWG to be incredibly helpful when choosing personal care products.  Also, you can check out EWG's Shoppers Guide to Safe Cosmetics.



EWG's (Environmental Working Group) Healthy Home Tips:  Know the ingredients in your personal care products

Better products are truthful in their marketing claims and free of potentially worrisome ingredients. Some products might make claims like "gentle" or "natural," but since the government does not require safety testing, personal care product manufacturers can use almost any chemical they want, regardless of risks.

How to read a label

Every personal care product must list its ingredients. Here's how to navigate the label:

* Start at the end, with preservatives. Avoid:

o Words ending in "paraben"
o DMDM hydantoin
o Imidazolidinyl urea
o Methylchloroisothiazolinone
o Methylisothiazolinone
o Triclosan
o Triclocarban
o Triethanolamine (or "TEA")

You can read the rest of the article here.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)


These prices are valid from March 30 thru April 5.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

One Day Deals!


On Friday, April 1st
Wild-Caught, Previously Frozen
Raw Shell-On Shrimp 16/20 ct.

These premium white shrimp are easy to prepare and versatile for many dishes and
cooking methods - steaming, sauteing, grilling, frying, broiling or baking.
Our Seafood Team is happy to peel, devein, and/or steam your shrimp for free!

Dip into our Kitchen-Made Cocktail Sauce! Found in the Seafood Department
Sale $9.99/lb.
Reg. $17.99/lb (You Save $8/lb!)

New!
 Check Out WholeFoodsMarket.com/WhatstheBigDeal for All of the Ways to Save at Whole Foods Market

This Week's Hot Deals!

FLORIDA Organic Grape Tomatoes
A quick and easy addition to salads and pastas.
(1 pint)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

WASHINGTON Organic Braeburn Apples
99¢ lb
Reg. $2.49 lb

TEXAS 1015 Sweet Onions
99¢ lb
Reg. $1.49 lb

WILD-CAUGHT Fresh Hake Fillet
This mild, flaky whitefish cooks up fast and flavorful. Try it baked, broiled grilled, steamed or
pan-seared.
$8.99 lb
Reg. $10.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER 85% Lean Ground Beef or Patties
Taste the difference in burgers, chili and meatloaf. Raised on a vegetarian diet; no added hormones or antibiotics.
$3.99 lb
Reg. $4.99 – $5.49 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Air-Chilled, Organic Buffalo-Style Chicken Wings
Heat-and-eat party staple. From poultry raised on a vegetarian diet
and no antibiotics ever.
$2.99 lb
Reg. $3.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER St. Louis-Style Pork Spareribs
$4.49 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

IMAGINE Organic Chicken Broth
Selected Varieties
(32 oz)
2 for $6
Reg. $3.99 ea
$1/2 Manuf. Coupon available here
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon 1/30 SmartSource Insert
+
$1/2 Whole Foods Coupon available here
Total:  $1.50-2.00 for each 32 oz. Organic Chicken Broth!

MITICA Asiago Pressato
A slightly sweet cow’s milk cheese from Italy.
$7.99 lb
Reg. $10.99 lb

IN-HOUSE MADE Baseball Kiddie Cupcakes
(6-pack)
$4.99 ea
Reg. $6.99 ea

ZEVIA All-Natural Diet Soda Sweetened with Stevia.
Selected Varieties
(6-pack, 12 oz)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea

JULIAN’S RECIPE Belgian Waffles
Selected Varieties
(9.88 oz)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.99 ea

ANNIE’S HOMEGROWN Pasta & Cheese
Selected Varieties
(6 oz)
3 for $4
Reg. $1.99 ea
Buy 2 and submit for a FREE Gardening Pack
Thanks! Your Green Helper

ORGANIC VALLEY Aseptic Milk
Selected Varieties
(4-pack, 8 oz)
2 for $8
Reg. $5.39 ea

BADGER Lip Balms
A creamy-smooth treat for dry,
chapped lips.
(0.25 oz)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

HYLAND’S Complete Allergy 4 Kids Multi-symptom relief for little snifflers.
(4 oz)
$5.99 ea
Reg. $8.69 ea

You can check out many more deals at Whole Foods by visiting Your Green Helper, helping moms save while going green.

Com-Til Mulch & Soil Conditioner for Your Garden - Columbus, OH


Com-Til & Com-Til Plus Compost 
Mulch & Soil Conditioner for Flowers, Vegetables and Landscaping

Com-Til is a dark, rich compost that will break up tough clay soil, add valuable organic matter, provide both macro and micro nutrients, help retain moisture and provide a decorative mulch. The product is made from residual bio-solids from the City of Columbus wastewater treatment plants, yard waste and wood chips.

2011 Spring Saturday Hours
April 23 & 30 and May 7 & 14
7 a.m. - 12 noon
Regular sales hours are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

City of Columbus Compost Facility
7000 Jackson Pike (S.R. 104)
Lockbourne, OH 43137
614-645-3153

For more information including pricing, visit their website here.




Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips for Getting to Green in the Bathroom

This week's Sustainable Saturday is the fourth part of a new Series called Getting to Green.  This Series will focus on easy, cost-effective ways to implement green ideas or concepts throughout your home and life. 

10 Tips for Getting to Green in the Bathroom 

1.  Use Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products or consider making your own.  Using common household ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, borax, lemon juice, essential oils, olive oil and spray bottles made with recycled plastic you can make your own basic cleaners.  You can find recipes for Sink & Tub Cleaner, Toilet Bowl Cleaner and Glass Cleaner.

2.  Choosing an all natural, non-toxic Shower Curtain that does not contain PVC or vinyl.  PVC and vinyl emit toxic gases which impact the Indoor Air Quality in your bathroom and home.  In addition, PVC and vinyl shower curtains do not last long, do not recycle well and typically end up in a landfill.

Here are some all natural, non-toxic Shower Curtain options:
  • Polyethylene Vinyl Acetate (PEVA) Shower Curtains: As durable as PVC but without the hormone-disrupting, asthma-inducing phthalates. 
  • Hemp Shower Curtains:  Shower curtains made from hemp are naturally mildew resistant and they’re machine washable.  
  • Linen Shower Curtains: Organic flax linen shower curtains are a beautiful alternative to PVC or vinyl shower curtains.  
  • Organic Cotton Shower Curtains:  Organic cotton shower curtains are another green alternative to vinyl shower liners.
Retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond and IKEA carry all natural alternatives at an affordable price like Bed Bath & Beyond's Ice Circles Vinyl Shower Curtain ($19.99) or IKEA's FINNGRUND Shower Curtain, which are made of chloride-free PEVA vinyl.

3.  Consider Towels made of either Bamboo or Organic Cotton. Bamboo features cashmere like softness with greater absorbency than cotton. It is grown without pesticides, grows quickly making it one of the most sustainable fiber crops.  Conventionally grown cotton is responsible for the largest use of insecticides.  Cotton grown without the chemicals or pesticides (Organic Cotton) allow the cotton to be at its natural best and free from the residual chemicals.

4.  Install Low Flow Faucet Aerators on Sinks.  Low Flow Faucet Aerators save 77% more water and energy then a standard 2.2 GPM aerator.  You can purchase a faucet aerator for a $1 or less.

5.  Install a Low Flow Shower Head.  On average, showers are 18% of indoor water use, at 6-8 gallons per minute traditionally in the United States.  A simple method to reduce this usage is to switch to low-flow, high-performance showerheads. These showerheads use only 1.0-1.5 gpm or less.

6.  Install Dual Flush Toilet Conversion Kit.  Toilets account for almost 30% of residential indoor water use in the United States.  Consider finding a way to reduce the water usage of your current toilet by installing a Dual Flush Toilet Conversion Kit, put weighted plastic bottles in the toilet tank or install a tank bank or float booster.  If you are considering replacement, consider purchasing a low flush or low flow toilet.  National Geographic's Green Guide:  Toilet Buying Guide

7.  Install Energy Star rated Exhaust Fans.  Ventilation is a key component of an energy-efficient house, and Energy Star-rated bathroom fans can play an important role in the overall energy-savings picture.

The Home Ventilating Institute, which supplies the EPA with product testing and certification information, offers the following tips for bathroom ventilation:
  • For bathrooms up to 100 square feet in area, an exhaust fan should provide 1 cfm per square foot, for example: An 8-foot-by-5-foot bathroom has an area of 40 feet so it should have a 40-cfm fan.
  • For bathrooms greater than 100 square feet, ventilation is based on the number and type of fixtures present, noting the following items require the minimum cfms stated: toilet—50 cfm; shower—50 cfm; tub—50 cfm; jetted tub—100 cfm.
  • The bathroom fan should be left on for 20 minutes after the use of the bathroom to completely ventilate the room.
8.  Consider Environmentally Friendly Personal Care Products.  Environmental Working Group (EWG) has an online Cosmetic and Personal Care Products Database which analyzes many personal care products.  This database will provide you with an overall Hazard Score and then you can access as much or little additional information on that product as you wish. 

9.  Consider Environmentally Friendly Paper Products.  Look for products from Seventh Generation, Marcal and other products that have recycled material content.  Many times you can purchase these items at a discount from Babies R Us, Soap.com or Alice.com.

10. Recycle.  There are many products that are used in the bathroom that can be recycled including personal care product containers and toilet paper rolls. 

You can read the entire Getting to Green series here:   

Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips for Getting to Green in the Kitchen 
Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips for Getting to Green in the Bedroom
Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips for Getting to Green in the Living Areas (Living/ Dining/ Family/ Office)

Resources:  ecohome - Bath Products Review:  Bathroom Fans and National Geographic Green Guide - Toilet Buying Guide.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)


These prices are valid from March 23 thru March 29.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

One Day Deals!



This Week's Hot Deals!

CHILE Seedless Green Grapes
It’s peak season for Chilean grapes, so enjoy them while you can. Look for crisp fruit on full bunches for snacks, salads and desserts.
$1.99 lb
Reg. $2.99 lb

OFF THAILAND Farm-Raised Raw Shrimp
Peeled and deveined for convenience! Add some sweet, firm shrimp to soup, stir-fry or pasta. 26 – 30 count. Previously frozen.
$9.99 lb
Reg. $12.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Beef Shoulder Steak, Roast or London Broil
Our excellent steaks and roasts at a crowd-pleasing price. And all our beef comes from cattle raised on a 100% vegetarian diet.
$3.99 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

MEXICO Champagne Mangoes
This variety has a rich, honey-sweet flesh that’s almost fiber-free. Perfect for healthful snacking, salads and salsas.
10 for $10
Reg. $1.50 ea

Boneless Beef Sirloin Steaks
$7.99 lb
Reg. $9.99 lb

WASHINGTON Pink Lady Apples
$1.69 lb
Reg. $2.49 lb

USA MSC-CERTIFIED Wild Sockeye Salmon Fillet
Previously frozen.
$11.99 lb
Reg. $14.99 lb

WALLABY ORGANIC Lowfat Down Under Yogurts
Selected Varieties
(6 oz)
4 for $3
Reg. 99¢ ea

FROM OUR BUTCHER Chicken Breast Cutlets
$5.99 lb
Reg. $7.49 lb

THREE SISTERS Cereals
Selected Varieties
(12 – 15.5 oz)
2 for $3.48
Reg. $3.49 ea

MEXICO Blackberries
(½ pint)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.99 ea

ANNIE’S HOMEGROWN Organic Crackers
Selected Varieties
(6.5 – 6.75 oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.69 ea

NEAR EAST Rice Pilafs, Couscous, Meal Kits
Selected Varieties
(5.1 – 10 oz)
3 for $5
Reg. $2.39 ea

MRS. MEYER’S All Purpose Cleaners
In Lavender, Lemon or Geranium. scents.
(32 oz)
$6.19 ea
Reg. $7.49 ea

PROBAR Fruition Bars
One of our favorite fruit-based superfood snacks!
(1.7 oz)
2 for $3
Reg. $2.29 ea

SOOTHING TOUCH Salt Scrubs or Sugar Scrubs
Aromatic scrubs that gently exfoliate and lock in precious moisture. All scents. (16 oz)
$7.99 ea
Reg. $16.69 ea

You can check out many more deals at Whole Foods by visiting Your Green Helper, helping moms save while going green.

Columbia Gas - $10 Contribution to The Nature Conservancy

Go paperless and help protect our environment!

Stop receiving your Columbia Gas bills in the mail! View them online at our Web site instead -- it's easy, it's green and it's secure!  See complete details and enroll in Direct e-Bill here.


This year, we’re partnering with the The Nature Conservancy to bring the conservation effort closer to home. Enroll in Direct e-Bill between January 1 and April 1, 2011, and Columbia Gas will make a $10 contribution to help The Nature Conservancy conserve fresh water for people and nature in Ohio on your behalf.

Sustainable Saturday - Spring into Eco-Action

Spring is almost upon us! It's 55 degrees here in Ohio and I'm getting anxious for warmer weather!  We've started some of our seeds for our garden and even cleaned out the garage this weekend. 

Spring is the season to enjoy the outdoors and time to start thinking about warmer temperatures. While you clean out your closets and tidy up your budget, it’s also a great time to implement some money-saving, planet-saving ideas for Spring:

1. Use cloth kitchen towels and napkins or at least half-sheet recycled paper towels.

2. Get a water filter or refill dispenser jugs vs. single-serve, single-use plastic bottles.

3. Avoid purchasing single serving packaged items. Instead package them yourself in reusable containers by shopping the bulk bins or buying large packages to save packaging on grains, beans, cereals, pasta and snacks.

4. Reuse shopping bags and/ or buy reusable shopping bags, and not just at the grocery store. I carry mine everywhere, even to the mall! Check out Greenfeet for some super cute styles or purchase from stores like Generation Green, The Andersons General Store, Target, Kroger and Whole Foods for as little as $1!

5. Make and take your lunch and avoid the waste of single-use packaging or take-out containers. Taking your own lunch is not only healthy for the environment, but healthy for your bottom line. Eating lunch out 5 days a week at $10 per day can really add up!

6. Wash clothes in cold water because roughly 80% of washer energy used is to heat water.

7. Watch your portion sizes to help balance consumption with resources (and help your health).

8. Shop the sales on eco-friendly cleaners, recycled paper goods and local, organic and seasonal goods. Check out stores like Big Lots for discontinued Method products, your local grocery store (Kroger and Babies R Us/ Toys R Us often clearances out Seventh Generation Products) and even Whole Foods (periodic sales on a variety of cleaning products) Also, check out my favorite coupon links on the right!

Photo credit:  FreeFoto.com

A portion of this post originally published by Saving Family Green in March 2010.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)


These prices are valid from March 16 thru March 22.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

One Day Deals!

WOW!!! This Friday's 1 Day Deal, is Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent!!! 
Buy 1 Get 1, + $1 off at the register with coupon!!! Come in on Friday, this is a FANTASTIC DEAL!
$1/1 Whole Foods Coupon available here
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon 1/23 Red Plum Insert
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here

This Week's Hot Deals!

CALIFORNIA Strawberries
Sweet, juicy gems fresh from the fields. Enjoy these in salads or smoothies, or dip in chocolate and serve with
sparkling wine.
(2- lb package)
$4.99 ea
Reg. $6.99 ea

MEXICO Ataulfo Mangoes
Sweet and juicy! Perfect for salsas, salads or snacking. This variety is not stringy, making it great for smoothies as well.
5 for $5
Reg. $1.50 ea

GUATEMALA Cantaloupe Chunks
$2.99 lb
Reg. $4.99 lb

FARM-RAISED Fresh Tilapia Fillet
A favorite for its mild, buttery flavor. Bake, broil or steam and serve with veggies for a healthy and delicious dinner.
$6.99 lb
Reg. $8.99 lb

WILD-CAUGHT Snow Crab Clusters
Great served with our garlic butter. Previously frozen.
$8.99 lb
Reg. $11.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Baby Back Pork Ribs
A real crowd-pleaser. Bake or grill to tender perfection. Don't forget the barbecue sauce!
$6.99 lb
Reg. $8.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Boneless Beef Chuck Roast or Stew Meat
$3.99 lb
Reg. $5.49 – $5.99 lb

MADE IN OUR KITCHEN Chipotle London Broil
$12.99 lb
Reg. $15.99 lb

NATURE'S RANCHER Pork Bacon
(12-oz package)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $5.49 ea

ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN Bunny Grahams
Selected Varieties
(7.5 oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.39 ea

ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN Organic Pretzel Bunnies
Selected Varieties
(7 oz)
2 for $4
Reg. $2.99 ea
$0.75/1 Whole Foods Coupon available here

KETTLE Chips
Selected Varieties
(14 oz)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.99 ea
$1/2 Manuf. Coupon available here
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon 1/2 SmartSource Insert (expires 3/19/11) or 1/30 Red Plum Insert (expires 3/19/11)

NATURE'S PATH Cereal
Selected Varieties
(10.6 – 14 oz)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.39 ea

LIFEWAY BioKefir
Vanilla, Blackberry or Pomegranate/Blueberry
(4 pack)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.29 ea

WHOLE FOODS MARKET® Fish Oil 1000 mg
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
(100 softgels)
$6.49 ea
Reg. $12.99 ea

CLEANWELL Hand Sanitizing Wipes
Kills 99.99% of germs.
(40 wipes)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

You can check out many more deals at Whole Foods by visiting Your Green Helper, helping moms save while going green.

Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget

Over the years I have become much more efficient and economical with buying organic on a budget.  Really most of the concepts I follow are the same whether you are buying organic or not.  The basic principles rely on setting a budget for weekly spending, buying things on sale and at their lowest price, stocking up when items are at their lowest price and using coupons.

10 Tips to Buying Organic on a Budget

1.  Grocery Store Sales

I think this one is pretty self explanatory if you follow simple ways to save money.  When you are buying an item on sale, you are paying a lower price.  Verify when an item is at it's lowest price by monitoring items that you typically buy throughout the year.  This can require creating a stockpile so that you have basics on hand all the time.  You are saving money buy doing this because you are always buying these basics on sale at their lowest price.  Good items to stockpile are baking items, meat, canned or freezer fruits and vegetables, cheese, cereal and snacks.

2.  Research lowest price for favorite items

When I tell people that Whole Foods has the cheapest Organic Kids Yogurt, people don't always believe me.  Because I have taken the time to observe certain prices on favorite items, I know that Stonyfield Yo-Baby Organic Yogurt is always the cheapest at Whole Foods.  In addition to yogurt, I buy Horizon Chocolate Milk Boxes, Olive Oil, Organic Ketchup and Organic Jam at Whole Foods because even without a coupon, that is the cheapest I can find these items in the area we live (Columbus, OH).

Also I want to add that I keep my weekly shopping to two sources, Kroger and the Farmer's Market (except for the occasional Whole Foods or Target trip which is maybe once a month) as to not be driving around to get the absolute best deal.  

3.  Unadvertised Specials


Kroger is notorious for unadvertised specials when it comes to Organic and Natural foods.  It's not uncommon during every trip to Kroger, that I find an unadvertised special.  For instance, several weeks ago I purchased Organic Lundberg White Basmati for $5.29.  These were on sale buy one, get one free.  I also purchased Organic Lundberg Risotto for $2.59, also buy one get one free.  This is a terrific deal on Organic rice and while I don't have the exact numbers, I believe it is even cheaper than buying this same rice, in bulk (20 lb.) with 10% discount from Whole Foods.

4.  Mark Downs 


This probably is my favorite way to save money on Organic Foods.  It's kind of like a treasure hunt and you don't always know what you might find.  I like to grocery shop around 4 o'clock during the week if possible.  Why?  Because usually the produce, bakery, organic dairy and meat departments have all marked down their items for the day due to expiration dates.  Even if something has not been marked down and I notice that the expiration date is within the next few days, I will take it to the meat counter or customer service desk and ask if they would like to mark it down.  Many of these items can be frozen once you get them home, so the expiration date is no longer an issue.

At my Kroger store, I find this to be a gold mine when it comes to Organic cheese.  Because not many people buy Organic cheese at our Kroger store, it often has to mark down these products.  Typically I have paid between $1 - $2.19 for Horizon Organic Mozzarella Cheese which I then I freeze for later use. 

5.  Organic Coupons 

There are multiple ways to get Organic and Natural Foods coupons.  Periodically websites like coupons.com or smartsource.com feature a few organic product coupons.  There are also store coupons such as Whole Foods coupons and Target coupons that will feature organic and natural food coupons.  Probably the best source for these coupons is the individual manufacturer websites.  There are often coupons available for Stonyfield, Seventh Generation, Cascadian Farms, Mier Glen,  Newmans, Annie's Homegrown, Annie's Naturals, etc.  You can find a detailed listing of these featured on my blog. (The link is on the top header as I view coupons as pretty darn important!)

6.  Farmer's Markets


Farmer's Markets are an absolutely terrific way to save on fresh produce, meats and even dairy products.  Not all items found at Farmer's Markets are Organic, however many people argue that Local and Fresh are just as important, if not more so than Organic.  Many times Organic items are shipping across the county or even from another country.  While many local farmer's practice farming that is not Certified Organic, but it's really close.  Not only that, but the items are so much more fresh.  I have been purchasing eggs from our local market.  These eggs will last several months in the refrigerator because they are fresh (just laid) the day that I buy them.  

You can search for Local Farmer's Markets in your area at Local Harvest.

Read about The New Dirty Dozen:  12 Foods to Eat Organic

7.  Local Farmers

Another great avenue for local goods is to contact local farmers directly.  There are many local (Amish and Menonite) farmers that would be more than happy to sell you half a cow, a gallon of fresh milk or some fresh cheese.  We have a local meat vendor that we purchase meat from throughout the year.  Due to demand, this farmer has offered to everyone in our local area, monthly meat delivery through the winter months.  Not only is this convenient and a timesaver, but we know where our meat comes from.  Do you?

8.  Buying Clubs

The Buying Clubs that I am familiar with are primarily Organic and Natural Foods.  United Buying Clubs feature Natural & Organic Foods in Bulk, Frozen, Refrigerated, Grocery, Personal Care, Supplements, Household Supplies & More.  United Buying Clubs has a listing of all the states they currently have buying clubs.  United Natural Foods services buying clubs from warehouses in Georgia, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Indiana, Iowa, and Pennsylvania.

Why join a Buying Club?
In addition to being able to access and purchase high quality natural and organic foods and products and the cost savings available from buying directly from the warehouse, there are many other reasons to start or join a buying club.
  • to get to know other people with similar interests from your community
  • to support organic farmers
  • to be a part of a cooperative food system that is owned and controlled by people who use the products, and to work together to serve your needs
  • to learn new skills, such as using a computer or bookkeeping
  • to revitalize your neighborhood, small town or rural area by gaining access to high quality natural foods and products which might not otherwise be available
  • to learn more about natural food, nutrition and cooking
9.  Buy in Bulk

Stores like Whole Foods offer a 10% discount when you buy in bulk.  They sell items like beans, rice, flour, etc.  Also, websites like Amazon.com offer bulk items.  They can be a great way to save money on Organic foods if you have the storage space to keep them and the ability to plan ahead for what you will need in the coming months or year.

10.  Grow a Garden

This year I've done a whole series documenting our garden.  Even if you only have a small space you can consider raised bed gardening or container gardening to grow organic produce in your yard.  If you have the ability to grow multiple types of produce you may consider freezing or canning for use throughout the year.  This year my goal is to harvest tomatoes from my 12 tomato plants and can tomatoes and sauce.

Want to know more about why you should go Organic?  You should read Organic.org's Top 10 Reasons to Support Organic in the 21st Century.

Originally published by Saving Family Green in August 2010.

The Hills Market (Worthington, Ohio) - Sale! Items thru March 15

The Hills Market is a locally-owned, specialty grocer located at the bottom of Worthington Hills - 7860 Olentangy River Road 

Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 




Sale Items

Prices good through 3/15/11

Wow Buy!: Vino de Milo's Pasta Sauce from Athens, Ohio (25 oz.) - Save $1.00
Wow Buy!: Kellogg's Cereals (5 Varieties) (8.9 - 12 oz. box) - $2.69 (Reg. up to $5.59) 
Wow Buy!: Chicken of the Sea Light Tuna Fish (Packed in Oil or Water) (5 oz.) - $.69 (Reg. $1.39)
Wow Buy!: Old El Paso Dinner Kids (4 varieties) (8.8 oz to 12 oz.) - $1.99 (Reg. up to $3.69)

Hills Own Marinated Mushroom Salad - $5.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Hills Own Seven Onion Pilaf - $5.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Hills Own Orange Chipotle Pork Tenderloin -  $11.99/lb. (Reg. Save $1.00/lb.)

All Chairman's Reserve Boneless Pork Chops & Roasts - $4.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)
Fresh Tilapia Filets - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)
 
Sweet Florida Strawberries - $1.79/lb.
 
Florida Pink Grapefruit - 4/$2.00
 
Jumbo California Navel Oranges - $.69/lb.

Boar's Head Buffalo Chicken - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)
Boar's Head Golden Classic Chicken - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Boar's Head Everroast Chicken
 - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Ohio Market Day on Saturday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Hills Market!

Join us for Ohio Market Day on Saturday, March 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Hills Market! 

The Hills Market is a locally-owned, specialty grocer located at the bottom of Worthington Hills - 7860 Olentangy River Road.     

Ohio Market Day - 
Saturday, March 12 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
Meet the people who make your food. Find new (and delicious) Ohio food products to put on your shelves. Taste new treats and learn about what makes local food (and local markets) so great!

This event features dozens of our favorite vendors, over 100 prizes, free hot dogs from Boar's Head (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and workshops with Ohio-based culinary experts.
 

Four 
Delicious Workshops  
Epicurean Peasant Food with Stanley's Market - 10 a.m.
Explore the differences in sausages as our friends from Toledo's Stanley's Market present Bangers (with Mash) and Polish Kielbasa (with Sweet & Sour Cabbage). They'll talk about the history of these dishes, while showing how to make their cabbage. Show up hungry!
Ohio Beef with Edible Columbus - 11 a.m.
Tricia Wheeler of Edible Columbus will show how to make Steak Au Poivre with Peppercorns and Snowville Heavy Cream served with a seasonal salad of mixed greens and dried fruit. Tricia's simple and delicious recipes let the ingredients steal the show.
The Sweet Side of EVOO with The Olive Orchard - 12 p.m. 
The Olive Orchard will share some its favorite favorites desserts using Extra Virgin Olive Oil, including Pound Cake (no butter), Cookies and other sweets.
Making Butter with Snowville Creamery - 1 p.m. 
The folks at Snowville Creamery will show you how simple it is to create your own butter in this exciting and entertaining demonstration. 
Also: Learn about all that culinary Columbus has to offer, with Bethia Woolf of Columbus Food Adventures!

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)


These prices are valid from March 9 thru March 15.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

One Day Deals!



This Week's Hot Deals!

CHILE
Seedless
Green Grapes
A great addition to any cheese plate. Also simply perfect for snacking out
of hand.
$1.99 lb
Reg. $2.99 lb

ARGENTINA
Organic
Bartlett Pears
$1.69 lb
Reg. $2.49 lb

FARM-RAISED
Cooked Cocktail Shrimp
Previously Frozen,
26 – 30 count.
$10.99 lb
Reg. $13.99 lb

FARM-RAISED
Fresh, Whole Branzini
Fantastic rubbed with Bosari
salt and grilled whole.
$7.99 lb
Reg. $9.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
Grill, broil, stir-fry or sauté — a versatile staple for easy weeknight meals. Stock up and save!
$4.99 lb
Reg. $6.49 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
Irish
Pork Sausages
Breakfast, Banger or Beer Brats
$3.99 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
93% Extra-Lean Ground Beef
$4.49 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

BAKED IN-HOUSE
Irish
Soda Bread
Traditional Irish soda bread. Moist, hearty and delicious. Try with
Kerrygold Irish butter.
$3.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

MADE IN OUR KITCHEN
Emerald Crusted
Leg of Lamb
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day and springtime!
$12.99 lb
Reg. $15.99 lb

SAFFRON ROAD
Frozen Entrées
All-natural frozen Indian entrées in selected varieties. (11 oz)
2 for $8
Reg. $5.39 ea

RED FORK
Pizzas
Bianca, Chicken & Smoked Gouda
or Margherita
(12.5 – 13.5 oz)
$4.99 ea
Reg. $6.99 ea

ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN
Fruit Snacks
Berry Patch, Tropical Treat, Sunny Citrus or Summer Strawberry
(4-oz multipacks)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.99 ea

BOURSIN Garlic & Fine Herbs Gourmet Cheese
(5.2 oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.49 ea

Stonyfield
Oikos Organic
Greek Yogurts
Selected Varieties
(5.3 oz)
4 for $5
Reg. $1.99 ea
$0.50/2 Manuf. Coupon available here

RAINBOW RESEARCH
Non-Drying
Liquid Soaps
Made with aloe vera, tea tree oil
and vitamin E.
(16 oz)
$4.49 ea
Reg. $7.69 ea

RAW REVOLUTION
Organic Greens Super Food Bars
Cholesterol free and vegan!
(2.2 oz)
$1.39 ea
Reg. $1.99 ea

You can check out many more deals at Whole Foods by visiting Your Green Helper, helping moms save while going green.

Sustainable Saturday - Organic Food Labels

There are multiple labels for natural and organic foods and it can be difficult to decipher.  If you're like me, you may want to make sure you are getting the most for your money without compromising quality.  Shopping at a Farmer's Market or directly from a farm are a really good way to ensure that you are getting a better product for your money.

There are many great resources out there to aid in this quest to find out more about the food you eat.  Much of this information comes from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) website.
_____________________________________________________ 

USDA Organic - General Background Information

Congress passed the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) of 1990. The OFPA required the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to develop national standards for organically produced agricultural products to assure consumers that agricultural products marketed as organic meet consistent, uniform standards. 

Does natural mean organic?

No. Natural and organic are not interchangeable. Other truthful claims, such as free-range, hormone-free, and natural, can still appear on food labels. However, don't confuse these terms with "organic.“



Understanding the Organic Label

Look for the USDA organic seal on raw, fresh products and processed products that contain organic agricultural ingredients. Or it may appear on a sign above an organic produce display.
On multi-ingredient products, the seal is usually placed on the front of the package (principal display panel); however, it may be placed anywhere on the package. When you see this seal, you know the product is at least 95 percent organic.

The seal may be printed in green and brown (as shown), in black and white, or outlined in black on a transparent background.

Where to find the USDA Organic Seal

Any agricultural product that meets third-party or state certification requirements may be considered organic. A wide variety of organic foods are available, including: pasta, prepared sauces, juices, frozen meals, milk, ice cream and frozen novelties, cereals, meat, poultry, breads, soups, chocolate, cookies, alcoholic beverages and more. These foods, in order to be certified organic, have all been grown and processed according to USDA NOP organic standards. Organic fiber products include clothing, bed and bath linens, tablecloths, napkins, etc.
_____________________________________________________

One of my favorite resources is National Geographic's Green Guide.  In the beginning it was a magazine publication, however now the Green Guide is only available online.  You can sign up here for their FREE monthly e-newsletter.

National Geographic's Green Guide - Beef Label Decoder which outlines the differences between USDA Organic, American Grassfed, USDA Process Verified, CERTIFIED HUMANE Raised and Handled, Food Alliance Certified and Animal Welfare Approved.

National Geographic's Green Guide - Coffee Label Decoder
which outlines the differences between Rainforest Alliance Certified, Bird Friendly, USDA Organic and Fair Trade Certified.

National Geographic's Green Guide - Meaningful Labels which outlines the qualifications for labels such as USDA Organic, Local and Regional Labels, Bird Friendly, Certified Humane Raised and Handled, Grass-fed, Green Seal, Forest Stewardship Council and Fair Trade.

I strongly recommend checking out resources such as The New Dirty Dozen:  12 Foods to Eat Organic for 2010 with the vegetables and fruits which contain the most pesticide residue.

Sustainable Saturday - Organic Food Labels was originally published by Saving Family Green in September 2010.

The Hills Market (Worthington, Ohio) - Sale! Items thru March 8

The Hills Market is a locally-owned, specialty grocer located at the bottom of Worthington Hills - 7860 Olentangy River Road 

Open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 


Sale Items

Prices good through 3/8/11

Wow Buy!: Cheez-It (Original or White Cheddar) (9 oz. box) - $1.99 (Reg. $3.09) 
Wow Buy!: Kellogg's Cereals (6 Varieties) (8.9 - 14 oz. box) - $2.69 (Reg. up to $5.49) 
Wow Buy!: Swiss Miss (2 varieties) (10 pack) - $1.49 (Reg. $2.69) 
Wow Buy!: Niagara Water (24 pack) - $3.59
Wow Buy!: Pop-tarts (5 flavors) (14.7 oz. box) - $1.79 (Reg. $3.49)

Hills Own Macaroni Salad - $4.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Hills Own Ohio Beef Meatloaves - $5.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Hills Own Twice Baked Potatoes -  2/$5.00 (Reg. $2.99/ea.)

Gerber's Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast - $3.59/lb. (Save $2.20/lb.)
 

Fresh Cod - $11.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)
 
Sweet Florida Strawberries - $2.29/lb.
 
Texas Pink Grapefruit - 4/$2.00
 
Red or Green Seedless Grapes - $1.69/lb.

Boar's Head Honey Maple Ham - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)
Boar's Head Honey Maple Turkey - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

Boar's Head Colby & Colby Jack Cheeses
 - $8.99/lb. (Save $1.00/lb.)

the whole deal coupons - NEW! march/ april 2011

Whole Deal Coupons

If you like to shop at Whole Foods Market® you definitely need to check out the whole deal for recipes and money saving coupons.

Whole Foods has began offering a lot more printable coupons on their website.  They are also featuring Sure Deals and Three Under $3 which are everyday values on quality products.

Depending on your local store policy, some stores will allow you to use one Whole Food coupons + one Manufacturer Coupon per item.  The corresponding manufacturer's coupons are listed below in addition to the Whole Foods coupon.

Here is a list of coupons available to print online:


$2.00 off any ONE (1) pound or more Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad


$2.00 off any ONE (1) package 365 Everyday Value Diapers or Training Pants


$1.00 off any ONE (1) bottle Whole Foods Market 2X Concentrated Laundry Detergent or 2X


$1.00 off any ONE (1) 365 Everyday Value Pizza: Four Cheese, Mediterranean, Uncured Pepperoni, Barbecue Chicken, Supreme, Tomato & Pesto or Vegan Roasted Vegetable


75¢ off any ONE (1) Annie's Homegrown Pretzels


$1.00 off any TWO (2) 1L Bottles of Apollinaris


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Barbara’s Bakery Product, 5.5oz or larger


75¢ off any ONE (1) 4.25 oz. Box of Blue Diamond Nut Thins
$0.75/1 Manuf. Coupon 12/5/10 SmartSource (expires 3/31/11)

$1.00 off any ONE (1) Burt's Bees Natural Toothpaste (4oz.) 


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Earth Balance Organic Soymilk


$1.00 off any TWO (2) Earth's Best Frozen Products
$1/2 Manuf. Coupon available here

$1.00 off any ONE (1) Udo's Oil 3-6-9 Blend, 8.5 oz.


$5.00 off any ONE (1) Garden of Life Vitamin Code 120 ct. or 240 ct. Excludes Vitamin Code Liquid, Vitamin Code Kids or Single Nutrient Formulas
$5/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


50¢ off any ONE (1) 20 oz. vitaminwater or vitaminwater zero


$1.00 off any TWO (2) Imagine Soups, Broths, Stocks or Gravies
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon 1/30/11 SmartSource Insert (expires 4/30/11)


$1.00 off any TWO (2) boxes Kashi TLC Bars
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here (expires 4/2/11)


50¢ off any ONE (1) Lifeway Bio Kefir 4-pack


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Zevia 6 pack
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Lightlife Product


$1.00 off any ONE (1) method item


$2.00 off any ONE (1) Quart of Milk with the purchase of any TWO (2) MI-DEL Cookies


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Muir Glen Product
$1/2 Manuf. Coupon available here (expires 3/10/11)
$0.75/1 Manuf. Coupon available here (expires 4/2/11)
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


75¢ off any ONE (1) 15.2 oz. Naked Juice Smoothies


$1.50 off any TWO (2) Nature's Path Organic Toaster Pastries or Flax Plus Cereal


$1.50 off any TWO (2) Nature's Path Organic EnviroKidz Gluten Free Boxed Cereal or Box of Bars


75¢ off any ONE (1) package of Fig Newman's (12 oz.) or Newman-O's (16 oz.)
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Organic Valley Cottage Cheese
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Organic Valley Sour Cream


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Seeds of Change Product
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here or here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Seventh Generation Product
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here or here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Oikos Organic Greek Yogurt 16 oz. cup or ONE (1) 4-pack 4-oz. cups
$0.50/1 Manuf. Coupon available here or here


$1.50 off any ONE (1) Udi's Gluten Free Bread
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here


$1.00 off any ONE (1) Volvic Natural Spring Water 6-pack 500ml bottles or THREE (3) 1.5 L. Bottles


$2.00 off any ONE (1) Kyolic, Kyo-Green, Kyo-Dophilus or Moducare Product


Free Westsoy Soymilk with Purchase of any TWO (2) Arrowhead Mills Cereals

$1.00 off any ONE (1) Yogi Tea