UK – The UK Soil Association has hit back at a recent survey that claimed there has been a drop in the number of people who see organic food as healthier and safer than conventional food.

“The truth is that organic food is safe and healthy,” said a spokesperson for the association, which promotes organic farming. “Consumers should be assured that organic food reaches the highest standards as all organic farms and food processors are inspected and licensed annually for compliance to a legally defined set of standards.” The survey, carried out by consumer analyst Mintel, found that despite a phenomenal growth in the organic sector there appeared to be growing scepticism towards organic products. According to the survey only 16% of adults believed organic products to be safer than non-organic, down from 22% in 1999. There was also a drop in the number of people believing organic products were better for them, from 22% to 18%.