Dutch consumers are spending more on sustainable food, according to a study from the country’s ministry of economic affairs, DutchNews.nl reported.
Sales apparently rose by 18 per cent last year and now account for 7 per cent of the national grocery bill.
In total, consumers spent €2.6bn on food considered friendlier to animals and the environment, including €1.1bn on organics.
This represents a rise of 6 per cent over 2013, the report stated. However, the increase was biggest in the contract catering sector and in cafes and restaurants, which saw a rise of 74 per cent. Supermarkets and specialty shops equally demanded more sustainable foods, showing an increase of 3 and 4 per cent respectively.
“People are increasingly prepared to spend more money on honest and equitable products,” junior minister Sharon Dijksma said in a statement. “That is not only good news for animal welfare and the environment but for all food producers who are making the change.”
