Obviously, we're all on board about the benefits of organics. That said, if your farm or company can also practice sustainability, above and beyond organics, you may be able to keep customers happier and increase your profits.
According to new data that will be presented by Innova Market Insights at the IFT Food Expo in New Orleans June 12-14 (Booth #6253), the importance of sustainability is becoming increasingly evident in the food industry.
Innova Market Insights points out the following:
- Consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable food, despite the economy.
- Food products with an ethical positioning (or sustainability slant) grew from 3.7% in 2008 to 6% in the first quarter of 2011.
- Products with a "FairTrade" positioning are selling better.
- A majority of adults are purchasing more sustainable food than a year ago and a majority of surveyed adults say that sustainable foods are good for the body and the environment.
Not that any of this is shocking. Consumer purchases in the organic and sustainable market have been increasing for some time now. If you're working on incorporating sustainable practices into your business, keep in mind that consumers are leery of non-certified natural and sustainable claims. For example, if you're pushing sustainable, it's wise to be officially certified organic vs. simply slapping the term natural on your product label.
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