Monday, October 28, 2013

Organics Continue to See Increased Consumer Demand

Consumer interest in organic products continues to increase despite the 2012 Stanford University study which concluded that organic and conventional produce have the same nutritional value. Evidently, the organic craze is more than just another food fad. A recent study by the Hartman Group shows that the organic allure lies in the absence of conventional farming’s negative qualities as opposed to any added nutritional benefits of organic farming.

In particular, consumers prefer the lack of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in organic food. Organic farmers use compost or manure instead of chemical fertilizers, natural pesticides or beneficial birds and insects instead of synthetic insecticides, and mulch or weeding instead of chemical herbicides. These practices promote conservation and reduce pollution in the air, soil, and water. These qualities undeniably benefit all living creatures on earth, and leave the planet healthier for future generations.

Furthermore, organic products are viewed as more trustworthy and authentic than conventional goods. After all, the USDA requires that organic foods meet strict standards in terms of growing, handling, and processing. Consumers value the honesty of organic producers, and like to know what they are eating. For this reason, shoppers in grocery stores nationwide are seeking products with clean, recognizable ingredient lists and minimal processing.

In fact, the Hartman study found that over 74% of US consumers purchased organic products in the last three months, and at least 36% used organic products on a monthly basis. However, basic products like produce and milk were the most popular organic purchases, largely because processed organic goods come at a price.

This does not have to be the case when using RIBUS ingredients! Our functional ingredients are 100% organic, derived from rice bran and hulls. When producing organics, use RIBUS products to ensure that manufacturing costs stay low and saving can be passed on to consumers!

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