The organic sector is on high alert! The players in this industry, once thriving, are facing real challenges. In the face of a changing market and a consumer perception that is out of sync with reality, united professionals are calling for bold measures to revitalize organic farming. Expectations from the State are becoming increasingly urgent. Let’s go, let’s take a look at the issues shaking the organic planet!
The reasons behind the crisis in the organic sector
Times are tough for organic farming. While organic was becoming a standard choice for many consumers, various reasons explain this current trend of disengagement. The crisis facing the sector is multifactorial, here are some key points.
- 📉 Decreased demand: An undeniable observation, consumers are increasingly indecisive about the real value of organic products. Tight family budgets play a crucial role in their purchasing choices.
- 💰 Product prices: Organic is often perceived as more expensive. This perception can deter consumers, especially in a difficult economic context.
- 🌿 Increased competition: The market is saturated with products labeled as “organic” but sometimes of lower quality. This complicates differentiation for industry players.
- ⚠️ Lack of government support: Several farmers point to the absence of public policies favoring organic agriculture, making their efforts even more delicate.
The National Federation of Organic Agriculture (Fnab) and other stakeholders have sounded the alarm, advocating for a reallocation of public aid towards organic farms. But before discussing solutions, let’s look at the current state of the sector.
An alarming status report in 2025
In 2025, the organic market is going through a storm. Sales of organic products have lost their dynamism from previous years. According to various studies, demand has dropped by 12% over the past two years. But how does this translate concretely in our supermarkets and specialized stores?
| Type of product | Sales 2023 | Sales 2025 | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organic fruits and vegetables | 1.2 billion € | 1 billion € | -16.67% |
| Organic dairy products | 800 million € | 700 million € | -12.5% |
| Organic meats | 500 million € | 400 million € | -20% |
These figures speak for themselves: organic, once a symbol of quality and sustainability, is at risk. Industry players, from Biocoop to Les 2 Vaches, including Greenweez and Naturalia, agree that it is time to act.
Calls to action: what solutions to consider?
As organic faces a crisis, the avenues to explore seem numerous, but all require strong and organized support. Stakeholders are mobilizing to demand new policies and ambitious initiatives. What is being proposed?
- 🚀 Revision of public aid: To breathe new life into the sector, it is crucial to reconsider how CAP aid is distributed, prioritizing support for organic farms.
- 📣 Highlighting short supply chains: Partnerships between local farmers and businesses help reduce logistical costs and offer a more affordable price for consumers.
- 🌍 Public awareness: Information campaigns about the environmental and nutritional benefits of organic products need to be developed to regain consumer trust.
- 🤝 Strategic partnerships: Collaboration with companies such as TerraCycle and Alter Eco to develop joint projects focused on recycling and sustainability.
Consultation with the government, as part of the National Strategy for Food, Nutrition and Climate (Snanc) launched in April 2025, is a promising step. The goal of reaching 12% of organic products in consumption by 2030 requires significant mobilization from stakeholders. Would it also be time to say goodbye to the idea that organic is solely a niche approach?
Committed players: spotlight on key companies
To illustrate the dynamism and commitment of organic players, let’s take a look at companies that have been making a difference for several years. Each in their own way contributes to transforming the sector.
Biocoop: A committed network
A French distribution chain, Biocoop is committed to offering 100% organic products. Their economic model is based on transparency and cooperation with local producers, making them pioneers in the sector. Biocoop has redefined the notion of cooperation between consumers and producers.
Les Jardins de Gaia: Organic craftsmanship in service of nature
Les Jardins de Gaia stands out for their artisanal approach to organic production, especially through their teas and infusions. They focus on sustainable practices while maintaining impeccable ethics towards the environment.
Coconut Farmer: An exotic touch
As for Coconut Farmer, they import products from organic and fair trade agriculture from the islands. They thus enhance the diversity of the organic offer in the market while supporting small farmers. Who would have thought that a simple fruit could have such an impact? 🌴
La Louve: The cooperative alternative
Finally, there is La Louve, a consumer cooperative that puts the consumer at the heart of the purchasing process. Here, each member has a say in sourcing policies. This initiative strengthens the bond between consumers and producers. A great example of solidarity!
The crucial role of public policies
With the rise of concerns in the sector, the role of public authorities appears as an unavoidable necessity. Driven by professionals, they must evolve to create clear and effective support models.
Conversion aids
To encourage farmers to adopt more sustainable practices, conversion aids and various tax incentives must be put in place. There is already a significant annual budget of 340 million euros dedicated to organic agriculture within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Raising awareness among local authorities
Local authorities also play an essential role. By applying strict rules for public markets, such as including a quota of organic products in school cafeterias, they not only support organic agriculture but also contribute to the food education of younger generations. 🌱
Here is a summary table of the different measures that could be implemented:
| Measures | Expected Impact | Concerned Actors |
|---|---|---|
| Conversion aids | Increase the number of organic farms | Farmers, State |
| Short supply chains | Strengthen the local economy | Consumers, local producers |
| Awareness campaigns | Increase organic consumption | All sector stakeholders |
FAQ on organic agriculture
1. Why choose organic products?
Organic products are grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and GMOs. They are better for health and the environment.
2. How do the prices of organic products justify themselves?
Production costs in organic farming are often higher due to environmentally friendly agricultural practices, manual harvesting, and strict oversight.
3. What is the current share of organic in consumption?
By 2025, the goal is to reach 12% of organic products in consumption, an ambitious but necessary target.
4. Who are the main players in the organic sector?
Companies like Biocoop, Les 2 Vaches, and Greenweez are key figures in organic distribution in France.
5. What can be done to support organic agriculture?
Favoring local purchases, informing oneself, and supporting awareness initiatives are concrete actions that everyone can undertake.
