Organic, Local, All natural…years ago people who ate these types of food would also be referred to as hippies, granola eaters and would spend their spare time practicing yoga and spend their time traveling the country in a VW Van…I kid, I kid, some of them had homes too.
Gross exaggerations aside, the proliferation of organic food has swept the country and become mainstream. It’s almost impossible to enter a grocery store these days without seeing the phrases, “Locally Grown” or “All Natural.” The Organic Trade Associate estimates sales in the US to reach $23 billion in 2008, a 19% compounded annual growth rate since 1990. Whole Foods’ 2007 acquisition of Wild Oats even got Wall Street involved, providing ~$700 million in financing.
One of the newest services in organic produce comes to Boston in the form a green box, and no, it’s not the Green Monster. Boston Organics, recommended by my sister and her fiancée, provides a weekly or biweekly [reusable] box of fresh organic produce delivered directly to your doorstep.
Since I am only one person, I chose the smallest biweekly box for $30. The service is selectively customizable to allow customers to pick their fruit/veggie ratio. I say selectively because the list of produce is pre-determined, so you can’t peruse an online inventory to find what you want. I actually find this somewhat refreshing for a couple of reasons. First, since the produce is mostly local, you’re receiving what’s in season and therefore best tasting. In addition, variety is the spice of life. I’m hoping to receive some items I wouldn’t normally purchase in the grocery store. This will force me to mix up what I’m eating and try new recipes or cooking techniques.
People with allergies shouldn’t be concerned. They do have a “No-List” for items you don’t want to receive. It’s a no questions asked online check list. You don’t like peaches, you’re sick of zucchini…no problem, just update your list and next week it’s guaranteed not to show up. My sister is allergic to limes (which makes for disappointing gin & tonics), so they are on her black list.
The quality of the produce I received today was great, and the nectarine I ate earlier was delicious. I hope the expansion of Boston Organics does not affect the quality, since that is always a concern as companies grow. Until then, my fridge is full and I am quite content eating away 
$30 box for 8.12.08
- 2 Pink Lady Apples
- Bunch of bananas
- 2 Nectarines
- 2 Pluots
- 2 Peaches
- 1 Cabbage
- 1 Green Lead Lettuce
- 3 Ears of Corn
- 1 Cucumber
- Bunch of Scallions
- 2 Eggplants
- 3 mini yellow zucchini/squash
