Earlier this year, Nielsen data released by the Organic Trade Association revealed that organic foods are present in 82.3% of the 117 million households across the United States. This popularity is reflected in the impressive 8.4% surge in sales, reaching a record $43 billion last year, as consumers filled their kitchens with a variety of organic products, such as crackers, strawberries, lettuce, and fruit snacks. Millennial parents, who are already the largest demographic of organic buyers, are increasingly choosing healthier, more natural food options while avoiding processed items that have traditionally dominated American grocery shopping. “There is a noticeable increase in interest in organic products when children come into the home,” Batcha stated at the Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore. When millennials become parents, they often make a stronger commitment to organic foods.
Both grocers and food manufacturers are responding to this trend. Supermarkets are enlarging their produce sections to offer more organic options, with some retailers like Wegmans featuring displays of these fruits and vegetables right at the entrance. Lidl, which launched in the U.S. in June, prominently showcases organic products while also highlighting clean labels and locally sourced items. Meanwhile, Amazon, having recently finalized its acquisition of the organic and natural foods pioneer Whole Foods, is anticipated to amplify the presence of organic products on its e-commerce platform as well as through its food delivery and meal-kit services. “We’re determined to make healthy and organic food affordable for everyone,” stated Jeff Wilke, CEO of Amazon Worldwide Consumer, in a press release last month.
In order to keep pace with consumer demand, major food manufacturers have significantly expanded their organic offerings, primarily through acquisitions. For instance, Campbell Soup invested $700 million in July to acquire the natural and organic brand Pacific Foods of Oregon and previously purchased Plum Organics, known for baby foods and snacks. General Mills acquired Annie’s, a producer of natural and organic products, in 2014 for $820 million, and Hormel followed suit by acquiring the organic meats brand Applegate Farms for $775 million the next year. Just this week, John Foraker, founder of Annie’s, announced his new role leading a California-based organic baby food startup, Once Upon a Farm.
As consumers continue to seek out organic options and manufacturers ramp up production, the Organic Trade Association remains optimistic about the future of this sector. Although there have been discussions regarding the value of organic foods and the significance of their health benefits, such concerns have not dampened the enthusiasm surrounding this popular market. With the momentum showing no signs of slowing down, it’s evident that organic foods, including products like ccm tablet 250 mg, are here to stay.