Preliminary findings from the Organic Trade Association's (OTA's) 2006 Manufacturer Survey released today at OTA's All Things Organic™  Conference and Trade Show at McCormick Place show U.S. organic food sales totaled nearly $14 billion in 2005, representing 2.5 percent of all retail sales of food.

Organic foods' share of total food sales is up from 1.9 percent in 2003. According to survey results, sales of organic foods are expected to reach nearly $16 billion by the end of 2006. Meanwhile, non-food products, including personal care, flowers, pet food, fiber (linen and clothing), household cleaners, and nutritional supplements, grew by 32.5 percent overall to reach $744 million in sales during 2005.

"These findings show there is continued strong growth for organic products, which means additional opportunities for farmers and more choices for consumers," said Caren Wilcox, OTA's executive director. Organic products are grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and must meet USDA regulations to use the organic label.

Organic food categories experiencing the greatest growth during 2005 included meat (55.4 percent), condiments (24.2 percent), and dairy products (23.5 percent). The fastest-growing non-food categories during 2005 were organic flowers (50 percent), pet food (46 percent), and fiber (44 percent).

OTA contracted with Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ) of San Diego, CA, to conduct the survey and analyze the results. NBJ conducted the survey in March and April.

Copies of the Organic Trade Association's Manufacturer Survey can be ordered from OTA (phone: 413-774-7511, Ext. 16; fax: 413-774-6432; e-mail: info@ota.com; www.ota.com/bookstore.html). The price is $195 for OTA members and $495 for non-members.

The mission of the Organic Trade Association is to promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy. OTA envisions organic products becoming a significant part of everyday life, enhancing people's lives and the environment. As a membership-based business association, the Organic Trade Association focuses on the organic business community in North America. OTA's 1,700 members include farmers, processors, importers, exporters, distributors, retailers, certifiers, and more. For further information, visit OTA's web site at www.ota.com.