The coronavirus epidemic is boosting organic sales as consumers pay more attention to the link between diet and health, according to market analysts Ecovia Intelligence (formerly Organic Monitor).
The industry has said that it hopes the upshift in sales of organic items, particularly through online retailers like Whole Foods Market, will continue once the COVID-19 outbreak is over.
“Covid-19 is raising consumer awareness of the relationship between nutrition and health. Consumers are buying more organic and healthy foods as they look to boost their personal immunity,” Ecovia said.
However, like the rest of the food supply chain, the organic sector is also struggling to meet demand with the extra restrictions place on suppliers and distributors around the world. “Many of the raw materials used by European and North American organic food companies are produced in Asia, Latin America and Africa,” said Ecovia. “Lockdowns are disrupting supply chains. For instance, India is a major source of organic tea, herbs, spices and related ingredients. Emergency measures introduced in March have halted food processing and exports.”
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