January 10, 2007

Organic poultry sales booming in the US

Retail sales of organic poultry were $161 million in 2005.

Retail sales of organic poultry in the US amounted to US$161 million in 2005, according to a report from the USDA's Economic Research Service (ERS).

Although the figure is less than one percent of conventional poultry sales, it is one of the fastest growing segments in the organic food industry.

According to the report "Organic Poultry and Eggs Capture High Price Premiums and Growing Share of Specialty Markets", retail sales of organic poultry have almost quadrupled since 2003.

The sector is expected to grow 23 to 38 percent through the end of the decade, with the market reaching US$600 million by 2010.

The increased demand is being driven by antibiotic use and use of growth hormones in the animal husbandry industry. Environmental concerns, along with concerns for the humane treatment of animals, also led to higher demand for organic meats.

ERS says the expansion of organic meat sections in natural food stores, deli counters and its increased use in manufactured products are also boosting demand.

The report noted that supply was a limiting factor and that supermarkets were interested in carrying organic meats.