Organic supermarkets, brands, and everything in between seems to be popping up all over the place. One must believe that more and more people are hopping on the organic food train, but is that actually the case in 2019?
If you think yes, then you are correct. More people than ever before are eating organic foods. In fact, according to a Survey done by the Organic Consumers Association, sales increased to $47 billion in 2016, which was more than an 8% increase compared or organic food sales in 2015. If that seems like a staggering increase, by the end of 2018, organic foods sales rose past $21 billion. Millennials and Hispanics are responsible for these large increase in sales over the last year.
Of course, we can continue to expect this upward trend in 2019 as well as more people become concerned with the amount of chemicals and pesticides in conventional foods. People are becoming more concerned about their health and their impact on the environment, and organic foods provide a healthier body and planet.
Interestingly, but not surprisingly, the most sold organic items are fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are most commonly sold because customers have the easiest time understanding produce is sprayed with tons of pesticides and that these chemicals easily get into the body when ingesting conventional produce. There is a bit more of a disconnect when it comes to organic vs. conventional meats, dairy, packaged food, and household and beauty items.
Even though there are such issues, the next most popular organic food item to buy is meat with almost $1 billion in sales in 2016.
Another interesting report in 2018 shows that 30% of US households are eating organic food. According to the report, shoppers are finding that organic food tastes better, is healthier, and even more nutritious compared to its conventional counterpart.
In another report, the organic food and beverage industry is expected to grow another 14% by the year 2021. Because demand is rising so much, so is competition. In order to remain competitive, companies and brands are driven to make new and innovative organic food products that excite customers.
One of the most in-demand organic food products is plant-based meat replacements. A close runner up is the demand for organic wine. Organic baby food is estimated to grow to $5.6 billion by 2020.
As we can see, more Americans than ever before are eating organic food. As the world faces more demand for organic food, it is yet to be seen how farmers will accommodate such growing demand. But in the meantime, Americans are eating healthier, feeling better, and enjoying the better and fresher taste of organic food!