Organic Farming Demand Surges – But Farmland Growth Stalls

The UK’s organic food market is thriving. In 2024, sales grew by 7.3%, reaching £3.7 billion, outperforming non-organic in both value and volume. Yet, behind this success lies a surprising problem — the land dedicated to organic farming has barely budged. Despite booming demand, only 3% of UK farmland is organic, a figure that’s stayed stubbornly static for over a decade.
A Booming Market Meets a Land Bottleneck
Recent reports from the Soil Association and other agricultural bodies reveal a striking contrast. Consumers are choosing organic in ever-increasing numbers, yet the rate of farmers converting to organic practices remains slow. Without more land transitioning, supply risks falling behind demand — which could drive prices up and limit availability of the quality produce people are looking for.
Why This Matters
Organic farming offers more than just food without synthetic chemicals or GMOs — it’s a system that benefits biodiversity, soil health, and long-term sustainability. With current farmland conversion rates so low, we risk missing the opportunity to:
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Boost rural economies through higher-value farming
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Support wildlife and pollinator recovery
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Improve soil quality and reduce reliance on imported feed and fertiliser
Calls for Change
Environmental and farming organisations are urging the Government to set a bold target: 10% of England’s farmland farmed organically. They argue this would not only meet growing consumer demand but also help meet climate and biodiversity goals.
What This Means for You
At The Organic Butchery, we’re proud to work exclusively with trusted British organic farms, meaning our supply is already rooted in sustainable, certified practices. Supporting organic farming directly helps farmers, the environment, and ensures the meat on your plate is of the highest quality — naturally reared, free from synthetic inputs, and full of flavour.
Closing Call to Action
Choosing organic is more than a personal health choice — it’s a vote for a better food system. By supporting organic farmers now, we can help shape a future where sustainable food is the norm, not the exception.
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