Organic agriculture
Among the 187 nations that practice organic agriculture, India holds a special place. With 9.12 million acres, India is home to 30 percent of all organic producers globally. Likewise, the major Indian states with areas under organic cultivation are Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.Foods cultivated organically are rich in antioxidant levels and micronutrients and devoid of toxic chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides. Not only does the organically grown food taste better but also adds to a healthy environment and is ecologically balanced. Oil seeds and fiber are the most produced organic food products in India.
Moreover, organic farming is one of the best ways to reduce toxic chemicals' usage while simultaneously ensuring food security and improving farmers’ livelihoods. This will in turn lead to the promotion and improvement of the health of the agroecosystem in India.
Consumer market trends
Indian consumers’ main concerns nowadays are food safety and quality. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the public perception of organic food, emphasizing food safety and nutrition for a strong immune system.For this reason, the primary reason for the purchase of organic food products among Indian consumers was that organic products are healthier and more nutritious. On the other hand, some consumers found the products to be too expensive. While vegetables and fruits were the most preferred organic food products followed by milk and dairy products.
However, domestic organic food consumption is driven by a growing middle class with more disposable income, fast urbanization, increased food safety concerns, and a growing segment of consumers who embrace a healthy lifestyle. Since organic food products are pricey and are therefore frequently marketed to the high-income urban population.
