From farm to plate, join in the celebrations this September and learn why organic is the best choice for you and your family.
More and more shoppers are choosing organic. In fact, 56% of shoppers bought organic in 2020, that’s around 9 million Aussie households! So, why are so many shoppers making the switch?
What is organic?
In Australia, organic products are made using sustainable and regenerative methods, are free from synthetic chemicals, with no artificial additives or hormones, animals are free-range, and all GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are prohibited.
This means that when a shopper chooses organic, they are choosing a product that is grown and produced in an environmentally friendly manner with no unwanted synthetic chemicals or additives, and therefore making a healthier choice for both themselves and their family.
Despite the pandemic, Australian households increased their average annual spend on organic by 12.8 per cent, while 13 per cent of households said that they spent over half of their household food allocation on organic in 2020, proving a continual commitment to buying organic.
Why choose certified organic?
Not all organic products are made equally. In Australia, the term ‘certified organic’ means the farm, product or service has been independently, third party verified by a government-approved certification body. This means that every part of the supply chain has been rigorously testing and adhered to a strict organic Standard, such as the Australian Certified Organic Standard (ACOS) or National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce (NS). Audits are then carried out annually to maintain certification.
However, there is currently no mandatory domestic regulation in Australia around the use of the term “organic”, meaning products with as little as 2 per cent organic ingredients can claim organic on their labels, without the need for certification.
Peak industry body, Australian Organic Limited (AOL) is working with Government and industry to change this. Achieving mandatory organic domestic regulation will protect consumers and prevent misleading organics from reaching the shelves. Until then, it is important for consumers to look for certification marks on organic product labels, just like the Australian Certified Organic Bud logo which is now recognised by 62 per cent of shoppers, to know that you are buying an authentic organic product and supporting organic producers.
What is Australian Organic Awareness Month?
Australian Organic Awareness Month (AOAM) is the nation’s largest campaign promoting the certified organic industry in Australia. This September, AOAM is all about raising awareness of certified organic products, brands and businesses whilst educating consumers about the importance of looking for certification marks on their organic purchases to trust in what they’re buying.
The Australian Organic market is thriving. By helping to promote the certified organic industry, you are also supporting the farmers, processors, manufacturers and retailers who work hard behind the scenes to provide the best quality certified organic produce.
How can I get involved?
This year, Australian Organic Awareness Month is sponsored by a range of incredible certified organic brands and retailers – from major supermarkets and wholesalers to independent retailers and stores. Simply look for the Awareness Month logo in-store and online.
Our 2021 Australian Organic Awareness Month ambassador, prior MasterChef champion and current co-host, and co-owner of Three Blue Ducks, chef Andy Allen, will be spreading the word and helping you cook up some delicious certified organic recipes. Keep your eye out for Andy on TV and online, and make sure you’re following him on social media @andyallencooks for the latest updates.
To learn more about how you can benefit from an organic lifestyle including tips, recipes, FAQs and exclusive special offers, sign up to Bud Organic Club for free.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media @budorganicclub, tag #AOAM2021, #ChooseOrganic and #AustOrganic in your posts and share your organic recipes throughout September to be featured on our social media pages.
Key insights from Australian Organic Market Report 2021
- The Australian organic industry contributes over $2 billion annually to the national economy
- 56% of shoppers purchased organic in the past 12 months
- More than half of organic shoppers check for certification marks
- 62% of shoppers recognise the ‘Bud’ trademark logo
- 80 out of 100 Australian food shoppers are receptive to buying organic
Download the Market Report 2021 Consumer Highlights here.
Data extracted from the Australian Organic Market Report 2021, published by Australian Organic Limited in collaboration with the University of Melbourne and research partners Euromonitor International, Mobium Group and NielsenIQ.
