The French pride themselves not just on their food but also on their health: French women have the second longest longevity in the world at an average of 83 years; while French men have the lowest level of cardiac arrest/cholesterol problems in the OECD. So it is no wonder that demand for organic food - called ‘bio’ in France, is thriving.
Demand is growing at about 20% per annum, according to the government-sponsored Agence Bio. The agency conducted a poll at the end of 2003 which showed 83% of consumers had a favourable view of organic products while 37% said they consumed organic products regularly. Interestingly, one of the main reasons consumers cited as discouraging them from buying more ’bio’ was the lack of availability in large stores.
Historically, most ’bio’ products have been sold in France via specialised Organic Produce stores, typically located in city centres. More recently, responding to the demand, the main food retailers have begun to include a greater range of ’bio’ products on their shelves. Until now the large retailers tended to limit their ’bio’ produce to milk and eggs but many now include a full range, including processed ‘bio’ food. The sub-sector seeing strongest growth, estimated at over 25% per annum, is herbal teas/herbal vitamins and supplements.
If your company produces organic food and boasts the official certificate from the British Soil Association, there should be no barriers to exporting to France. The Ministere de l’Agriculture agreed in 2003 to accept certified British organic produce without further controls.
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The French pride themselves not just on their food but also on their health: French women have the second longest longevity in the world at an average of 83 years; while French men have the lowest level of cardiac arrest/cholesterol problems in the OECD. So it is no wonder that demand for organic food - called ‘bio’ in France, is thriving.