Apparently, since the financial crisis began, sales of organic produce have plummeted. At the same time, sales of Fair Trade products are on the rise. Michael Skapinker argues that it’s because consumers are becoming more discerning. While Fair Trade has tangible benefits, such as improving the conditions and pay of the farmers and their workers, the merits of Organic foods are not as clear:
The Soil Association’s research showed people would buy organic produce if they thought it was better for them, if it was less cruel to animals or if buying it would help tackle climate change. The problem for the organic movement is that none of these arguments is convincing.
(source: The Financial Times, photo: Simon Rawles)
