Organic food sales boom

Sales of organic food are booming, according to a survey by consumer magazine Health Which?, published today.

The study of 2,000 people found 29% replacing some of their staple food, such as fruit and vegetables, with organic alternatives.

Just over 60% said they ate organic food for health reasons, with over half of these people saying this was because organic products are not treated with pesticides.

Nearly half the people who gave health as their reason believe that organic food contains more vitamins and minerals than non-organic.

Genetic modification was a worry for 9% of those buying organic, while 6% were concerned about BSE.

Nearly 30% thought organic food tasted better.

The biggest barrier was price, cited by 45% of those choosing not to eat organic food.