Bord Bia's national organic conference in Waterford has addressed scenarios for the future of the Irish organic sector. Organic farming and production levels are still low with only 1,410 registered organic operators in Ireland, 1,195 of which are growers, reports the Irish Times.


Sales of organic food in Ireland have increased by 82 % in the last two years and are now worth € 104 million. Research has also showed that 45 % of Irish grocery shoppers bought an organic product in the last month, representing a 20 % increase over the figures from 2003 figures. Bord Bia official Lorcan Bourke, chairman of the Organic Market Development Group, said that research showed 'organic' had the greatest recognition of all ethical food labels, with 91 % of those interviewed stating they were familiar with the term, compared to 50 % being familiar with the term food miles. The research also highlighted bread, beef, preserves and cheese as some of the organic produce most likely to increase in popularity over the coming years.

Ireland’s first organic supermarket has just opened in Blackrock, Co Dublin, reports SBPost. Certified by the Organic Trust, the shop’s range includes fruit and vegetables, meats, breads, dairy products, speciality cheeses, teas, coffees, wine and chocolate. Mr. Grant, the managing director, said that the firm sold healthy seasonal foods and supported Irish producers and suppliers. Future plans included expanding to three more stores in the next five years, hoping for Dublin city centre, but also looking to the north side of the city, according to Mr. Grant.