Debunking the Organic-Costs-More Myth (English Muffins)

The belief that organic foods are always more expensive than their conventional cousins is misplaced.

Yes, organic milk can cost several dollars more than conventional (it's worth every penny, though), but many other everyday items can be similarly priced, or even cheaper depending on the brand. Take, for example, English muffins.

The most popular national brand, Thomas', retails for $3.79 for a six pack of original (white flour) or original made with whole grain; multi-grain are $4.19. Remember, with Thomas' we also get denatured flour from grains sprayed with pesticides, a host of preservatives, genetically modified soybean oil and caramel color, depending on the variety.

In the same price range is Rudi's Organic Bakery, the leading national organic bread company, which sells whole wheat English muffins for $4.19.

While the flavor and texture of Rudi's muffins are superb, I've heard the nooks and crannies—a major selling point of Thomas'—are slightly lacking.

Personally, I think spending less than seven cents more per muffin is a no-brainer in order to avoid pesticides, preservatives and other synthetic ingredients.

However, the absolute best deal—conventional or organic—are the organic English muffins from Whole Foods (original and whole wheat), priced at $2.49 for a six pack.

It takes a little time to figure out where the deals are, but once you have the knowledge it will serve you for years.