What is the first thing we think when we hear the phrase “health food store”? Healthy food? Duh, of course. But what else? More often than not people associate health food stores with skyrocket prices. However, this is not always true.

When it comes to organic milk and butter, the prices in our local health stores are usually at least 25% higher. The same goes for yogurt, cheese, sour cream and eggs. This is certainly understandable, because small local health stores are not getting nearly as much traffic and turnover as supermarkets. The selection in small stores is generally pretty limited, so it is tougher for the owners to make profit.

It probably varies by location, but despite the popular myth that everything in health food stores is ridiculously overpriced, I find great deals on organic fruits and vegetables at health food stores. The produce is usually supplied by the local farmers and it is seasonal, meaning that you will not find tomatoes in winter or cherries in January. Be careful when buying produce, because locally grown doesn’t always mean organic. If you are going specifically for organic, look for labels, or ask the store employees.

Whole grains are usually cheaper in small health stores than in supermarkets, but you usually have to buy larger quantities (again, speaking from my experience). Prices range from 0.99 to 3.99 per pound.

Last thing. When shopping for healthy products, either at local health food stores or supermarkets, be careful what you buy. Due to skillful marketing specialists, many products have “all natural” labels on them, but it doesn’t mean than they are organic or even healthy. “All natural” can mean literally anything and is not regulated by the FDA. It doesn’t mean you should never buy anything with “all natural” labels on them. Just make sure you don’t pay more for these products, because it usually doesn’t mean anything. If you want the best products, look for “certified organic” labels.

If you have never stopped at your local health food store, give them a try. You may be surprised at what you find.

I also recommend online health food stores, such as MotherNature or iHealthTree. These stores has a great selection of health and organic products and supplements and the prices are very reasonable.