More organic food at Wal-Mart

The world’s largest retailer has decided to sell more organic food, starting this summer.
But already in the past weeks, Wal-Mart has begun to double their offer. It is predicted that organic products will sell for about 10 % more than conventional products. Currently, organic goods have a premium of 20 – 30 %, reports BBC. The organic food industry is worth about $ 14 billion a year, 2.4 % of the total sales. The forecast for the growth is about 15 % per year.

While many people will approve a healthier and larger choice for consumers, others will complain that this kind of factoring is not in accordance with the concept of organic production. Bruce Peterson, head of perishable food at Wal-Mart, said that the move into organic was to change the way consumers view the retailer.

Wal-Mart has been asking suppliers like Kellog, Kraft, General Mills and Pepsi to ensure they have a broad enough range of goods. According to the New York Times, Kellog will develop organic versions of Rice Krispies, Frosted Mini Wheat and Raisin Bran. Kraft is thinking of an organic version of its macaroni and cheese. As Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University said, organic food is better for the planet, but it is a ploy to be able to charge more for junk food.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4765665.stm