European Union-Demand for organic farming.

EUROPEAN UNION-ORGANIC FARMING.

Demand for organic food will keep on growing despite the world economic downturn, which will create an opportunity for poor farmers in developing countries according to the United Nations.

Certified organic product sales will reach US$67 billion by the year 2112 according to the organization.

The report published on Friday said, " Even in the current economic crisis, where the demand for most produce is dropping, the demand for organic food will continue to grow".

Sales of organic fruits, vegetables, grains, eggs and meat- produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides-has shot up in the past four years based on claims that the food is healthier.

However the more expensive items have lost momentum in supermarket sales in the United Kingdom and the EU countries, where shoppers are looking more to value for money and house brands rather than pricier select brands.

Studies from Latin America, Africa and Asia are showing that organic farmers are getting a better return for their products than conventional farmers and with lower overheads, this will keep the organic farming alive and well.

Organic farming is particularly well suited to small farmers and small holders as the costs of fertilizers have doubled in the last year and they do not have this expense.

24% of the worlds organic farms are in fact located in Africa, a recent study on 331 farms in Uganda showed the returns were worth the additional paperwork and accreditation.