Organic Food Market Feel Hot
The organic food market may have been hot, but U.S. economic challenges have cooled down sales. While sales have increased 140 percent since 2003, and food and beverage sales are expected to reach $7.2 billion this year, growth has slowed in recent months, reports the research firm Mintel.
Economic concerns are causing Americans to take a harder look at grocery purchases. “Across the board, Americans are spending less and ‘organic versus traditional’ is a decision many people are thinking about carefully,” says Marcia Mogelonsky, Mintel’s senior analyst points out.
The research firm cites two major cost-related challenges for organic food producers: rising food prices and private-label brands. Prices for food consumed in the home increased 7 percent this past year, according to Mintel’s report. “To cope with higher prices many shoppers are simply opting not to buy pricey organic or premium brands,” says Mogelonsky. Read more
Hong Kong residents turn to organic food amid melamine scare
After eating China-made products that were tainted with melamine two more children in Hong Kong have developed kidney stones.
The city also found unsafe levels of melamine in China-made fish feed that were used at a local farm, after a similar scare over eggs.
All this has proven to be a boom for sales of organic food. Despite tightening budgets, when it comes to high-end grocery shopping, people in Hong Kong are still willing to dish out the extra cash.
One said: “I’m always willing to pay a little more for organic food because I think it’s better for the earth, not just for people.”
“I don’t want to take any chances,” another added. Read more
Organic food products a key role in managing lifestyle diseases
Organic and natural food products can play a key role in managing lifestyle diseases in the Middle East, where obesity, stress, cardiac disorders and diabetes are the biggest healthcare concerns, according to experts. The up to 40% more antioxidant levels in organic foods, as revealed in a four-year long European Union-funded study, have been scientifically proven to mitigate cancer and heart disease risks.
The fast-growing organic and natural food market is the highlight of the Middle East Natural & Organic Products Expo (MENOPE 2008), to be held from November 16 to 18 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Organised by Dubai-based Global Links, the event is supported by the UAE Ministry of Health and Ministry of Environment & Water.
The organic food market is growing at an estimated 20 to 25% annually. More than 175 companies from over 35 countries will showcase an array of natural foods at the expo, expected to be attended by lifestyle specialists, nutritionists, retailers and healthcare professionals. Read more
South Koreans Going Organic, Organic Food as a Safer and Healthier Option to Regular Food
According to their new research report, “South Korean Food and Drinks Market: Emerging Opportunities”, the South Korean organic food market, including fresh produce, field crops and Read more