Organic milk sales soar to 200m litres

The organic sector of the milk market is growing by 11.5% every year. Organic milk is now worth almost £150 million, which is up 16% from the previous year, making the organic milk sector one of the grocery trade's fastest growing fresh produce markets. This compares to 6% growth for the total milk market. Yeo Valley organic milk is leading the way in the sector, with a 10% market share, and showing strong performance in its branding – ahead by 147%. Ben Cull, Yeo Valley's marketing manager, said: "There are strong ethical and environmental benefits in favour of organic milk that appeal to a growing number of consumers, but each time there's new research showing nutritional benefits, sales take a further leap forward, so there's little doubt that the figures will be even more positive come the end of December." He added: "These figures are despite the fact that there was a shortage of supply at the end of 2006 and early 2007, which held back market growth." Organic milk contains up to 90% more antioxidants, which is believed to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.