The latest Defra estimates for organic farming in the UK (which relate to 2018) show an increase in the number of organic producers, while the number of organic processors declined over the same period, and the area of organic land also declined, something which supporters say indicates a shift away from larger farms.
The number of organic producers in 2018 was up by more than two per cent to 3,544 compared to the previous year.
Roger Kerr, chief executive of OF&G, commented, “Continued growth of consumer demand for high-welfare and environmentally friendly produce has seen organic sales increase steadily in the last seven years, which has in turn triggered an increase in organic farm conversions.
“Our producers are achieving good economic returns, even in the current economic and political uncertainty facing the agricultural industry. But with increased regulation of agro-chemicals and potential increases in currency volatility affecting the price of inputs and outputs, many businesses are looking to reduce risk. And with policy signals from Government, farmers are looking at their options, including organic.”
He added there continues to be high rewards on offer for organic producers, particularly organic cereals: “Organic farming is a viable business option for those who can make the system work.”
Photo Caption: OF&G says there are plenty of opportunities in organic production
Photo Credit: OF&G / Greenhouse PR