I think you’d be hard-pressed to find too many businesses that grew by 17.1 percent in the messy financial year that was 2008. Yet, despite report after report that the sale of U.S. organics was becoming another victim of the recession, organics grew in 2008, confirms a report by the Organic Trade Association. Pretty impressive.

The survey, conducted by Lieberman Research Group on behalf of OTA, measured the growth of U.S. sales of organic foods and beverages as well as non-food categories such as organic fibers, personal care products and pet foods during 2008. Results show organic food sales grew in 2008 by 15.8 percent to reach $22.9 billion, while organic non-food sales grew by an astounding 39.4 percent to reach $1.64 billion. As a result, organic food sales now account for approximately 3.5 percent of all food product sales in the United States.

 

“This marks another milestone for the organic food market,” said Bushway.

With tough economic times, consumers have used various strategies in continuing to buy organic products. Because most venues now offer organic products, consumers have the opportunity to shop around. Increased use of coupons, the proliferation of private label brands, and value-positioned products offered by major organic brands all have contributed to increased sales.

 

I’m curious. How has the recession affected your purchase of organic goods?