(OTA, Greenfield, June 16, 2009) Tightening their spending habits amid economic uncertainty, U.S. families, however, are not giving up their purchases of organic products. In fact, nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of U.S. families buy organic products at least occasionally, chiefly for health reasons according to a new study to be unveiled this week.
Findings from the 2009 U.S. Families’ Organic Attitudes and Beliefs Study, jointly sponsored by the Organic Trade Association (OTA) and KIWI Magazine, also show that three in ten U.S. families (31 percent) are actually buying more organic foods compared to a year ago, with many parents preferring to reduce their spending in other areas before targeting organic product cuts. In fact, 17 percent of U.S. families said their largest increases in spending in the past year were for organic products.
“These findings reinforce the data collected in OTA’s 2009 Organic Industry Survey that showed continued healthy growth in U.S. sales of organic products,” said Christine Bushway, OTA’s executive director.
“We are pleased that so many parents are continuing to choose organic. It’s inspiring to see the degree to which these parents are leading the charge for a healthier way of life among their families and friends,” said Maxine Wolf, chief executive officer for KIWI Magazine.
Compiling results gathered from 1200 families across the United States, this research identifies and profiles those who promote buying organic among family, friends and co-workers, specifically exploring the role parents play as potential influencers. Data reveal the typical path of organic purchases, beginning with the most common points of entry and tracing this through succeeding product category purchases. The study also explores families’ organic grocery shopping experiences and their preferences for the way organic products are organized and displayed on the retail level. In addition, it examines consumers’ understanding of organic product labels.
Source: OTA Press release of June 16, 2009: New study: Nearly three-quarters of U.S. families buy organic products. OTA, Greenfield, MA
More information
- OTA bookstore: 2009 U.S. Families’ Organic Attitudes and Beliefs Study
- OTA Press release of June 16, 2009: New study: Nearly three-quarters of U.S. families buy organic products. OTA, Greenfield, MA
- OTA: Homepage
- Organic-World.Net: USA
Contact
- Barbara Haumann
Organic Trade Association
Tel. +1 802 579-9317
bhaumann(at)ota.com