zeit.de
German Organic Food Market Set for 5 Percent Growth in 2024
Germany's organic food market is expected to grow by over 5 percent in 2024, driven by packaged goods sales in mainstream supermarkets, while organic retailers face ongoing competition and the government aims for 30 percent organic farmland by 2030.
- What is the overall growth forecast for Germany's organic food market in 2024, and what are the primary factors driving this growth or hindering it?
- Germany's organic food sector is projected to achieve over 5 percent growth in 2024, nearing previous average growth rates of 7-8 percent. This follows a 5 percent increase in 2023, reaching €16.1 billion in turnover, after a decline in 2022 due to high inflation. This year's growth is largely driven by packaged organic goods, while fresh produce shows slower growth.",
- What are the key policy goals for the organic food sector in Germany, and what are the challenges (e.g., regulatory hurdles or consumer behavior) in achieving these objectives?
- The German government aims to increase organic farming to 30 percent of total agricultural land by 2030, but currently stands at 11.4 percent. Despite a slight decrease in the number of organic farms, their overall share of farms increased slightly. The organic food sector faces challenges from regulatory burdens and competition from larger retailers.
- How is the market share of organic food retailers (e.g., organic markets and farm shops) changing compared to supermarkets and discounters, and what factors contribute to this shift?
- The rise of organic products in mainstream supermarkets and discounters is a key factor in the sector's growth. Conversely, organic markets and farm shops are losing market share to these larger retailers, despite a slowdown in their decline. Consumer focus on price remains significant, although awareness of animal welfare and organic certification is increasing.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the organic food market's growth positively, emphasizing the overall increase in sales and the recovery from the previous year's dip. The headline (not provided, but inferred from the text) likely emphasizes the success story. The challenges faced by smaller organic retailers and the slower growth in fresh produce are mentioned, but presented as secondary concerns. The overall tone is one of cautious optimism.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and factual, presenting data and quotes from industry sources. There is no use of overtly loaded language, though the description of the market as 'successful' could be considered slightly subjective. The overall tone remains objective, focused on reporting factual developments.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the growth of the organic food market in Germany and the challenges faced by smaller organic retailers. However, it omits discussion of potential negative environmental impacts of increased organic farming, the potential economic impact on conventional farmers, and a detailed analysis of consumer behavior beyond price sensitivity. Further, there is no mention of the specific government policies aimed at supporting organic farming beyond the stated 30% goal.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of the market forces at play. While it acknowledges the price sensitivity of consumers, it doesn't delve into the complex interplay of factors influencing consumer choice, such as brand loyalty, health concerns beyond the Bio-Siegel, or regional variations in consumer preferences. The focus on the competition between supermarkets and smaller organic retailers presents a somewhat limited view of the market.
Gender Bias
The article uses gender-neutral language ("Konsumentinnen und Konsumenten") consistently, and there is no apparent gender bias in the presentation of information or in the selection of sources. However, more diverse perspectives from within the organic farming industry itself could improve gender representation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a 5% growth in the organic food market in Germany, indicating increased access to healthier and potentially more sustainable food options. This contributes positively to food security and reducing hunger, aligning with SDG 2 targets. The increasing availability of organic products in supermarkets also improves accessibility for a wider consumer base.