Organic Food Stores

Industry Statistics

• Organic farming is practiced today in about 100 countries around the globe, encompassing more than 59 million acres of land.
• Studies show 39 percent of the population in the United States uses organic products.
• In a recent online poll, it was found that 21 percent of Americans buy at least part of their groceries at organic food stores.

While those statistics may be surprising, what is really exciting is that global sales of organic foods increased to nearly $40 billion in 2006. This shows that people truly are seeing the benefits of organic foods.

It probably comes as no surprise that produce is the leading product sold in organic food stores. Likely, this is due to the fact that fresh produce is more appealing when it is views as "clean" and "pure." Organic produce certainly fits that image!

Organic meat is in such high demand that it is being imported to keep up. In fact, demand for organic meat grew by 51 percent in 2005.

Until supply meets the high demand for organic foods, you can expect to pay premium prices for the safe, healthy products that you want for your family.

Where to Find Organic Food

Organic foods are found in many places, from a traditional farmer's market to the super grocery stores that have become so popular today. For the best selection of products, however, try local organic food stores.

Big chain stores like Whole Foods Market and Wild Oats Marketplace have an outstanding selection of organic products for you and your family.

In fact, you can expect to find your local organic food store to have much the same feel as traditional supermarkets. There are bakery and deli departments as well as produce, cheese, pet foods and wine. Even coffee and prepared foods are available as organic products. Whatever you need, you can find it at an organic food store.

Both Wild Oats Marketplace and Wild Oats Market have store locators on their websites to assist you in finding a location where you live.

What if you don't have a big organic grocery store near you? You don't have to shop at the big chains to have a great shopping experience. There are probably hundreds of small, locally-owned organic food stores and cooperatives where you can shop. Try these websites to help you locate an organic grocery store near you:

• Green People.org is an online directory put together to help you find eco-friendly products and services. The site has a list by state of organic food stores.
• Local Harvest is the best online resource to find organic and locally grown food. Founded in 1998, Local Harvest now has over 9,000 members and it continues to grow. Use their locator tool to find grocery stores and cooperatives near you that sell organic products.
• The Organic Consumers Association also has a locator tool to help you find the products you want in your area. Simply type in your zip code and select how many miles you are willing to travel and the products you seek from the drop down menus. Click "GO" and you'll be shopping in no time.

If you're shopping at stores that carry organic and natural food products, you may think you won't be able to use coupons. However, many of the organic food companies are offering coupons and other savings for their customers. Many of them send out coupons regularly through Mambo Sprouts; sign up for their newsletter, coupon packs and email deals.

If you find that you are too far off the beaten path, try looking for organic food online. Or, consider carpooling with a friend for one big shopping trip. After all, carpooling is great for the environment too!