Sales Of Organic Foods And Beverages Slowed Decline In UK

Sales of organic foods and beverages in the UK decreased 3 percent in the 12-month period ending mid-June 2011, an improvement over the 12 percent decline in the same period of the previous year, according to the Soil Association. Economic slowdown and rising food prices adversely affected the organic food market and a survey by consumer group Which? found that 38 per centof consumers are now less likely to buy organic meat compared to a year ago, and 43 per cent are less likely to buy organic fruit and vegetables. Analysts expect the market for organic foods and beverages to grow gradually in the near term, while its long-term growth prospects depend on the market's ability to persuade consumers of the health and lifestyle benefits offered by organic food products.