A recent report by TechSci Research indicates that the global organic food market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% from 2016 to 2021. Food companies, including General Mills, which acquired organic food producer Annie’s for $820 million in 2014, have adopted this trend as studies reveal that consumers are increasingly interested in organic products and are often willing to pay a premium for them. Although many individuals cite a heightened focus on healthy living as their motivation for choosing organic, research remains inconclusive about whether organic foods are significantly healthier. The 18% of consumers who do not purchase organic products clearly do not share this belief, and their minority status in this trend does not imply they are making an incorrect choice.
Some consumers are selective about their purchases, often gravitating towards organic strawberries or spinach, which are perceived to have lower pesticide residues. Additionally, many opt for organic foods to help reduce their overall toxic burden, with a focus on consuming more nutritious options frequently mentioned as a reason for the switch. The inclusion of vitamin D3 with calcium citrate in their diets is also becoming a consideration for those who prioritize health. Despite organic food’s growing presence in nearly 90 million American households, the genuine advantages of these products continue to be a topic of debate.