
You know they say you are what you eat, and that we should take care of our bodies or we’ll regret it when we’re older.
The topic of this week’s Eco Ventures got me thinking.
According to a study out not so long ago (a research collaboration between Spire Research and Consulting and S.P. Jain Centre of Management), despite the financial crisis that the globe has just endured, 97% of organic consumers would still spend the same amount, if not more, on organic produce.
Take into mind – that on average, organic food is estimated to cost on average 112% more than the alternative.
85% of the consumers then went on to say that they would recommend organic food to their family members.
Such a strong and loyal customer base is any industry’s fantasy.
At present, organic consumers in Singapore are mainly expatriates and those in the middle/high income groups.
But I suspect that if more mass market chains are to increase their offerings of organic produce, economies of scale could bring prices down.
Most of Singapore’s organic produce is presently imported from the US, Australia, and Europe. With more demand in the region – this only leaves room for opportunity for regional suppliers to step up, comply with international standards and tap into that market – to provide affordable organic food.
International standards and regulation was one issue Peter Lim, the founder of what is believed to be one of Singapore’s pioneering organic stores – Nature’s Glory.

Nature’s Glory has been running for over 18 years now. Mr Lim says that he expects more supplies to come from South Korea, China and India. All that is needed is more regulation and certification to guarantee that what is claiming to be organic or pesticide free does what it says on the tin.
Leon Perera from Spire Research and Consulting believes there are opportunities for smaller organic firms in offering lifestyle or value-add products and services as well.
This is something that Nature’s Glory does; check out this selection of goods for your car.

So then you have to ask yourself – what is it that turns people to become such avid followers of organic food.
And surprisingly from Spire and S.P.’s survey, health was not the only factor. Others include superior taste, concern for the environment, concern for food safety, concern over animal welfare, support for small producers and even nostalgia.
So while I understand that it is difficult for all of us to go organic, there is also simply not enough supply. So, just be mindful of what you eat and take care of yourselves
I wonder how many of you reading this are avid organic movers and shakers, and how many of you think there’s no difference.
Mail me in your stories. This week I’ve heard of people that have not taken medication in over a decade, swearing by organic food. Or maybe you just take supplements and haven’t had a cold since eons. Either way, do you think there is continued demand for an organic industry in Singapore – and also Asia?