At Least Something Is Doing Well

Despite the tough times the economy is undergoing, one sector is doing just fine, and like it or not, luckily it impacts the agricultural industry — organic products. A recent survey found that U.S. sales of organic products, both food and non-food, reached $24.6 billion by the end of 2008, growing 17.1% over 2007, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA).

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% to reach $22.9 billion, while organic non-food sales grew by an astounding 39.4% to reach $1.648 billion. As a result, organic food sales now account for approximately 3.5% of all food product sales in the U.S.

OTA said, “With tough economic times, consumers have used various strategies in continuing to buy organic products. 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.”