UK Organic Vegetable Growth

LONDON - Mar 13/06 - SNS -- The organic vegetable market in the United Kingdom grew 13% during the 2004-05 marketing year, according to a study by the Henry Doubleday Research Association (HDRA), while traded volumes rose 23%.

The UK Organic Vegetable Market study, funded by DEFRA, reports that 152,100 metric tons (MT) of organic vegetables were traded during this period, representing a total retail value of £223 million.

More than 30 packers and wholesalers were involved in this research, which aims to provide detailed information on the total market and supply of individual organic vegetable crops.

The rate of growth in the UK organic vegetable market exceeded the growth rates of both the conventional vegetable and total organic food markets. Additionally UK self-sufficiency in organic vegetables increased to 64% whereas self-sufficiency in conventional vegetables decreased.

"The study suggests that the market will continue to grow but communications with pre-packers and wholesalers indicated insufficient availability may constrain the sector in the future," said Natalie Geen, Research Officer.

Subscribers can read the full text of the article by Clicking here