One in three shoppers buys organic produce at least once a week and one in five buys every two or three weeks, Ireland's first national organic conference in Carrick- on Shannon heard yesterday.
New research compiled by Amárach Consulting found that €21-€30 a week on average was spent on organic meats and €11-€20 a week was spent on organic fruit and vegetables. This indicates a significant portion of the household food expenditure is being spent on organic foods.
The research, which was carried out last month, found that the average grocery expenditure was between €51 and €100.
Chicken made up the largest part of organic production with 70 per cent of those surveyed. One in three said beef was their most preferred organic purchase.
Carrots were the most frequently purchased organic food followed at 60 per cent, with potatoes (53 per cent) and tomatoes (43 per cent).
Presenting her findings, Jane Kearney said food was no longer a simple functional item but a complex repertoire of carefully selected accessories.
"In-store layout, a distinct move towards a boutique feel that slows the harried shopper down and subtly places importance on certain 'treat' foods like wine, bread, cheese, deli goods and fresh produce," she said.
Shoppers were increasingly claiming to buy their food on taste and production values more than on price.
For parents, the produce and meals they provide for their children is of paramount importance. One in two shoppers (56 per cent) buys organic on the basis that it is healthier for them and their families.
The survey, which was carried out across the State, had found a positive and largely accurate understanding of organic products across all those surveyed.
Ms Kearney said that 56 per cent of those who bought organic food believed it was healthier for their families and that it was free of chemicals and pesticides.
While we were all enjoying a modern Ireland and society, there was evidence of a growing return to appreciating traditional values and methods, validated by the fact that two in five shoppers (41 per cent) claim they prefer foods grown and produced in a natural fashion.
"The principal reason given by the one in 10 shoppers who have yet to buy organic foods for not purchasing was price [ 72 per cent], followed by one in four who claim not to believe in a difference in comparison with non-organic foods," Ms Kearney continued.
"This indicates a need to continue to communicate the availability, flavour and value of the range."
Most of those who did not buy organic food were people under 35 without children which was evidence that the need to provide healthy food for children was a major determining factor in buying.