Since 1998, organic farming in Portugal has tripled in total area.
In 1993, Portugal had 73 registered organic producers. By 2002, the number had jumped to 1,059. Still, Portuguese consumption of organic foods accounts for less than one per cent of the total food market.
Because marketing initiatives are almost nonexistent, consumers lack awareness of organic foods. High prices also constrain consumption, as does the perishable nature of many fresh organic products.
Despite these factors, there are growing niche markets for organic food products in Portugal. Organic foods are found in Portuguese supermarkets and hypermarkets, where products are clearly identified as "organic."
An increasing number of fresh produce markets now stock organic items, and some producers even offer direct home delivery. However, market structure and distribution channels are not well developed for organic products.
While still small, the prospects for an expanded market for organic products in Portugal are real. The Portuguese are growing more conscious of health and environment, which explains their rising interest in organics, especially natural fruit and fibres.
