Study: Core Organic Consumers Seek Local, Clean Products

"Core organic consumers -- those who are the most loyal to buying organics -- are seeking more authentic, clean foods through farmers' markets and community support agriculture (CSAs), according to the State of the Organic Consumer 2010 by The Hartman Group.

Overall, the organic industry has grown steadily since 2000 before leveling off in 2008, said Arwen Kimmell, senior ethnographic analyst with The Hartman Group and lead analyst on the study, "Beyond Organic and Natural." About 75 percent of consumers use organics, and one-third buy organics monthly, up from 22 percent in 2000, she noted. "Consumers are using the same or more organics than a year ago, indicating the economy isn't stopping organic purchases," Kimmell said. The size of the organic market was not identified by this study."

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