During my years as the founder and CEO of Beaumont Organic, I have sat on many panels and I can categorically say that one of the most common challenges raised when discussing organic clothing, organic food, and sustainable living is COST! 

People often feel that they can’t afford to buy and eat healthy organic produce and buy eco products for their home because it is more expensive. Whilst it certainly is expensive to buy such products from convenience stores, if you can take the time to hunt and plan the best way to purchase these items it can be much more cost-effective.

We all need to slow down a little and in doing so we can adapt our lifestyles to incorporate organic produce at home for a very affordable price.With this in mind I have decided to share with you my 3 top tips for buying organic on a budget.

Tip 1 – Buy In Bulk

I am not referring to fresh fruit and veg here. I am referring to all of your healthy larder provisions like seeds, nuts, herbs and oils.

Buying these products can add up in a supermarket if you are buying small packets, or even if you are using refill stations. I have found buying in bulk from the likes of Real Food Source a game-changer. It’s so much more reasonable and means we always have bits in to add to salads, stir-fries or sweat treats.

Tip 2 – Make Your Own

Buying an organic cereal bar in Holland and Barratt will cost you the best part of £2, but if you make your own at home you can get at least six for this price.

I make mine and freeze them to keep them fresh and I mix and match what I pop in.

Here’s one of my favourite recipes for energy balls:

• 1 cup of oats
• ½ cup of raisins
• 1 tbsp of cacao powder
• 1 tsp of vanilla essence
• Bind with peanut butter to your desired consistency

Making your own household cleaning products is also a huge win. It's super easy to do and not only saves on pennies but also saves on unwanted plastic in the house. Washing up liquid is one we get through fast, along with basic surface cleaner.

Here is a recipe you can try at home for a natural surface cleaner:

• 200ml vinegar
• 1 tbsp baking soda
• 400ml water
• 3 drops of lemon essential oil
• 3 drops of lime essential oil

You will also need:

• A large mixing bowl
• A reusable spray bottle

Method:

1. In a large bowl, mix baking soda and vinegar.
2. Pour in the water and mix carefully.
3. Add in the essential oils and mix everything until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the reusable spray bottle and shake gently.
5. Spray onto hard surfaces and wipe with a damp cloth to leave them smelling amazing!

Tip 3 – Grow Your Own 

My favourite of these tips, and I can assure you homegrown food tastes so much better. 

Personally, I focus on growing easy things that we use a lot of at home like rocket, mint, rosemary and chives. I always start with a small organic plant which I buy from our local organic produce supplier at the market and then off we go! The beauty of rocket and mint is that it grows happily in pots so no matter the size of your garden you can do this.

I do hope that has inspired you a little and look forward to hearing how you get on.

All my best wishes,

Hannah