The organic food industry in Canada continues to see growth, with sales now at $6.9 billion annually, representing 3.2% of grocery sales.
Those numbers are up from $5.4 billion and 2.6% in 2017, according to a news release.
Research commissioned by the Canada Organic Trade Association shows that consumers who purchase organic tend to be younger. A recent survey of 1,000 people found that among those 18-24 years old, organic products make up 46% of their weekly grocery purchases; for those 25-34, the number is 32%; and for those 35-44, the number is 25%.
Nearly 80% of organic consumers usually buy organic fruits and vegetables, according to the release.
Eighty-two percent of people who shop for organic food regularly do so at traditional grocery stores, up from 75% in 2016. Forty-five percent shop for organic at mass retailers like Walmart and Costco, up from 39% in 2016. Twenty-five percent purchase from specialty retailers, up from 24% in 2016.
The survey also found that 55% of Canadians trust product with the Canada Organic Certified logo, up from 39% in 2016.
“The data shows that Canadians are buying more organic products year over year, even during a global pandemic,” Tia Loftsgard, executive director of the Canada Organic Trade Association, said in the release. “From avoiding exposure to pesticides to higher animal welfare standards, consumers are making choices that align with their health priorities and values.”