Organic food market is booming again as quality really matters

The UK organic food and drink market grew nearly 8% in the year to 27 September 2025, with sales volumes up 2.5%, and organic poultry and salmon recorded double‑digit rises in value and volume.

The organic food market in the UK is expanding despite ongoing cost‑of‑living pressures, with retailers and producers reporting the strongest growth seen in about two decades. Industry figures point to rising consumer interest in health, food quality and trust as drivers of demand. Supermarkets have increased shelf space and own‑label organic ranges, while some younger consumers and middle‑income households are buying organic staples more often. These shifts echo a rebound from declines seen during the 2009 financial crisis, when retailers reduced ranges. Key facts: - The UK organic food and drink market grew nearly 8% in the year to 27 September 2025, with sales volumes up 2.5%, about five times the rate of the overall market. - Organic poultry sales rose 15% by value and 13% by volume year‑on‑year; organic chicken was reported up 13% despite higher retail prices. Salmon showed increases of 21% by value and 18% by volume. - Riverford reported a 6% increase in annual sales and its chief executive said the market had not grown like this for 20 years. - Around two‑thirds of organic food and drink is sold through major supermarkets; retailers including Tesco and Waitrose have expanded their organic own‑label ranges and brands. - Younger consumers show notable interest: a recent poll found 42% of 18–24 year‑olds buy organic at least once a month, and Yeo Valley reported a 40% rise in demand for natural and Greek yoghurts over three years. Summary: The growth has broadened the customer base beyond older, higher‑spending groups to include middle‑income families and younger consumers, while supermarket support has helped availability and choice. Undetermined at this time.