The organic food market in France

Organic refers to a set of agricultural and food practices based on principles of sustainability, respect for the environment and animal welfare. Organic products are grown without the use of chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or artificial additives. Organic farming focuses on preserving biodiversity, healthy soils and ecosystems, and production methods that promote a natural balance .

Organic food products fall into three main categories:

Fresh produce: fruit and vegetables, dairy products and eggs, meats, seafood, delicatessen, frozen foods and fresh bakery products.

Beverages: alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Groceries: sweet and savoury.

Worldwide, the market is booming. Between 2023 and 2024, sales rose by 11.6%. What's more, annual growth of 11% is forecast from 2024 to 2034, reflecting the growing demand for organic products worldwide. Asia accounts for 60% of global organic production.

At national level, the organic food market has seen contrasting trends in recent years, with notable fluctuations in performance. Indeed, sales in the sector reached an impressive peak in 2020, posting significant growth of 12.6%. However, this positive momentum did not last, asthe market stagnated in 2022 and 2023.

On the production side, it is interesting to note that the total number of certified operators engaged in organic activity shows a general upward trend. Reflecting producers' growing commitment to sustainable farming practices, this number has gradually evolved, finally reaching 87,439 producers in 2023. This increase testifies to a willingness to adopt environmentally-friendly production methods.

In terms of distribution channels, it is worth noting that supermarkets saw a steady decline in sales between 2021 and 2023. This trend contrasts sharply with that of other distribution channels, which are seeing sustained sales growth, indicating a shift in consumer preferences.

Between 2021 and 2023, the organic share of household consumption also fell slightly, by 0.8 points. This is all the more remarkable given that 85% of French people say that the organic share of their purchases has remained stable or even increased. This perception underlines the growing interest in organic products, even if the figures show a slight decline.

Consumers justify their attraction for organic products by their desire to look after their health, a reason given by 57% of French people, while 37% appreciate the superior taste of organic products. On the other hand, among non-consumers, 75% express reluctance towards organic products, pointing out that their price is considered too high. What's more, 41% of these individuals don't really see the point, highlighting potential obstacles to wider organic consumption.

Lastly, in the foodservice sector, organic food is experiencing a positive trend, with a 9% increase in sales in the contract catering sector, and an even more marked 12% increase in commercial catering. These figures suggest that integrating organic products into the menus of these establishments could play a key role in popularizing organic food and raising consumer awareness of the benefits of these dietary choices.