Organic News

Studies report multiple benefits of organic products.

A French researcher's review of scientific findings concerning organic products has confirmed the high nutritional quality and safety of food produced using organic practices. The literature review, prepared by Denis Lairon of the University of Aix-Marseille in France, was commissioned by the French Agency for Food Safety (AFSSA) and published in Agronomy for Sustainable Development — Ota.com

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U.S. Organic Sales Grow by a Whopping 17.1 Percent in 2008

GREENFIELD, Mass., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- U.S. sales of organic products, both food and non-food, reached $24.6 billion by the end of 2008, growing an impressive 17.1 percent over 2007 sales despite tough economic times, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), which today made available final results from its 2009 Organic Industry Survey.

While the overall economy has been losing ground, sales of organic products reflect very strong growth during 2008. "Organic products represent value to consumers, who have shown continued resilience in seeking out these products," said Christine Bushway, OTA's Executive Director.

The survey, conducted by Lieberman Research Group on behalf of OTA, measured the growth of U.S. sales of organic foods and beverages as well as non-food categories such as organic fibers, personal care products and pet foods during 2008. Results show organic food sales grew in 2008 by 15.8 percent to reach $22.9 billion, while organic non-food sales grew by an astounding 39.4 percent to reach $1.648 billion. As a result, organic food sales now account for approximately 3.5 percent of all food product sales in the United States.

"This marks another milestone for the organic food market," said Bushway.

With tough economic times, consumers have used various strategies in continuing to buy organic products. Because most venues now offer organic products, consumers have the opportunity to shop around. Increased use of coupons, the proliferation of private label brands, and value-positioned products offered by major organic brands all have contributed to increased sales.

The final report of the Organic Trade Association's 2009 Organic Industry Survey is now available for purchase. Orders can be placed online at http://www.ota.com/bookstore/2.html.

The Organic Trade Association (OTA) is the membership-based business association for organic agriculture and products in North America. Its 1,600 members include growers, shippers, processors, certifiers, farmers' associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, retailers and others. OTA's mission is to promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy (www.ota.com).


As part of its commitment to educate its customers, each line of Lisa's Organics products features a "Green Tip" on the package to inspire people to do something to help green up their life, things anyone can do to reduce their environmental impact. "I like the tips like 'Wear flip flop sandals so you won't have to wash as many socks and don't forget to only wash full loads of laundry,'" said Griffin.

SOURCE Organic Trade Association

 

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