Why go organic? Answers to the question are, like most big picture questions, varied.

Whatever the reason, with demand outstripping supply over several years and gaining momentum, organic agriculture is no longer a fringe industry, according to NSW Department of Primary Industries organics and food industry development manager, Scott Seaman

"Some see it philosophically as the right way to farm for nature’s benefit, some as a lifestyle choice," Mr Seaman said.

"Others see the health benefits of a non-chemical production system.

"Then there’s the economic potential and a marketing point of product differentiation.

"The real difference for the organic industry is that consumers drive the market.

"Consumers are becoming more aware of agricultural production systems and the impact on natural resources and more aware of food and product safety, primarily desiring reduced levels of chemicals.

"Other factors include the perception of improved food taste and flavour, animal welfare and social responsibility.

"Another social trend - eating seasonal and local produce - supports the values of rural communities, fair trade, carbon footprints, globalisation, and restoring the lost connection between farmers and consumers."

The major distribution channels for organic produce are now the major retail food chains, although there is a strong specialised retail sector for organics and a growing presence through farmers markets and direct-to-consumer retail.

Organic production in Australia is still relatively small, even though we dedicate more land to it than any other country.

The recent publication of the RIRDC strategic plan for the development of the industry identified strong opportunities in the cereal grains industry, as the highest priority.

Other opportunities included animal production industries, for example beef, lamb and sheep meat, particularly in the rangelands areas of NSW.

Both the horticultural and dairy industries were highlighted, with rapid growth in demand for both domestic and export products.

"The major strength of the organic industry is its base of Quality Assured production systems, a process of being certified by a third party, giving the consumer confidence in production integrity," Mr Seaman said.

Although there are several accreditation bodies, the process of having an auditing process backing the production system gives organics its strength.

Contact Scott Seaman, Bathurst, (02) 6330 1200, scott.seaman@dpi.nsw.gov.au