Health and Wellness Series – Organic packaged food trends in Belgium

Note: This report includes forecasting data that is based on baseline historical data.

Executive summary

Belgium is a diverse consumer market of 11.8 million located at the heart of Europe with approximately 97% living in urban areas It has one of the highest per capita incomes in Europe with a gross domestic product (GDP) of $515 billion in 2021.

Belgium is one of the world's largest organic packaged food markets, valued at US$474.7 million in 2021. Demand for organic packaged food has grown in Belgium as consumers make healthier choices in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Top three organic packaged food categories were organic dairy, accouting for 54.8% of Belgium's total organic packaged food market, organic bread (21.0%) and organic spreads (3.8%). The fastest growing categories were organic ready meals, which grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%, followed by organic ice cream (CAGR 6.7%,US$1.8 million) and organic confectionary (CAGR 5.6%).

Canadian organic packaged food exporters have preferential market access to the EU-Canada Organic Equivalency Agreement. The agreement allows for Canadian products to be exported as organic products to the European Union (EU), provided that the products meet organic food requirements and certified as organic in Canada or the EU.

 

Market overview

Belgium is a diverse consumer market located at the heart of Europe. It is composed of the francophone Wallonia region to the south, the Dutch speaking Flanders region in the north, and the bilingual capital region of Brussels, in addition to a small number of German speakers. Referred to as "the capital of Europe," Brussels is home to the headquarters of the European Union (EU) and of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), as well as hundreds of international institutions, associations, and multinational corporations.

Belgium's GDP reached $515 billion in 2021, while its bilateral agriculture trade with Canada totaled $351.8 million in 2021. With its major ports (Antwerp is the second largest port in Europe), a significant portion of bilateral trade either originates in, or is destined for, other EU countries. Canada ranks as Belgium's 13th largest import source with Belgium ranking as the 15th largest recipient of Canadian exports in 2021.

Belgium is densely populated with a population of 11.8 million in one of Europe's smallest landmasses. Most of the population is concentrated in the northern two-thirds of the country with approximately 97% living in urban areas It has one of the highest per capita incomes in Europe, with a balanced income distribution, resulting in widely distributed purchasing power among its residents. Belgium's central location in the wealthiest region of Europe makes it an ideal gateway for exports to destinations throughout Europe. Within a radius of 500km, 140 million EU consumers can be reached, representing 60% of Europe's purchasing power.

Belgium is the world's fourteenth largest organic packaged food market, based on 2021 retail sales. Between 2016 and 2021, Belgium's organic packaged food sector expanded at a CAGR of 3.1% or an increase of US$54.5 milion. Demand for organic packaged food has grown as consumers make healthier choices in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The positive outlook for organic packaged food is expected to continue with a CAGR of 4.5% over 2021-2026 or an increase of US$93.8 million.

Organic packaged food retail value sales by top 17 markets (based on 2021 Sales) - Historical and forecast retail value sales in US$ millions and growth
Country 2016 2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 2022 2026 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026
World 34,933.6 50,815.4 7.8 54,475.1 70,304.2 6.7
United States 15,285.4 21,260.5 6.8 22,850.2 29,021.4 6.4
Germany 3,838.7 5,176.7 6.2 5,412.3 6,322.0 4.1
China 2,550.0 4,732.5 13.2 5,234.5 7,525.1 9.7
France 2,652.3 4,707.6 12.2 5,136.3 7,015.9 8.3
Italy 1,222.0 1,761.1 7.6 1,880.5 2,414.0 6.5
United Kingdom 1,392.1 1,749.2 4.7 1,810.7 2,124.1 4.0
Canada 867.5 1,237.7 7.4 1,360.7 1,857.9 8.5
Netherlands 760.4 1,100.3 7.7 1,159.7 1,501.7 6.4
Denmark 699.7 1,063.7 8.7 1,106.4 1,320.5 4.4
Sweden 673.3 905 6.1 943.8 1,168.0 5.2
Austria 614.9 807.1 5.6 816 982.2 4.0
Switzerland 440.2 524.9 3.6 536.5 631.5 3.8
Japan 392.4 416.6 1.2 421.1 446.5 1.4
Belgium 331 385.5 4.2 400.8 590.9 4.5
Spain 213.1 316.7 8.2 337.8 415.3 5.6
Norway 155.5 233.7 8.5 251.8 332 7.3
Turkey 37.9 159.1 33.2 201.6 456.9 23.5

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Consumer characteristics

Belgians have a high awareness of environmental issues and that awareness was heightened during the pandemic. According to a Euromonitor survey, Belgian consumers' green attitudes are more aligned when it comes to product packaging: 52% of respondents say they select recyclable packaging and 49% use refillable/reusable packaging. 60% of survey respondents say they try to have a positive impact on the environment through their everyday actions, but that does not always apply to purchasing decisions. According to the survey, only 19% of respondents (compared to 32% globally) say they try to buy sustainably produced items,

According to the survey, fewer Belgians than their global counterparts are concerned about their eating habits. For example, despite the growing global interest in plant-based foods, Belgian consumers are still meat lovers, and meat consumption rates did not veer far off course during lockdown, as consumers purchased meat to cook at home while there were restrictions on foodservice outlets. According to the survey, fewer Belgians practice vegetarianism (3%) and veganism (2%) than their global counterparts, however, a considerable number of Belgians are altering their diets: 10% of respondents say they follow a flexitarian diet, ie typically not eating meat (or fish) but consuming it occasionally.

While 44% say they look for healthy ingredients in food and beverages, only 27% (compared to 45% globally) say they closely read the nutrition labels of food and beverages. Only 14% (compared to 29% globally) say they keep track of the calories in the food that they eat, and 34% (compared to 44% globally) say they actively monitor what they eat in order to manage their weight.

Market size

Health and wellness (HW) packaged food saw growth during the 2016 to 2021 period, at a CAGR of 2.6% and is expected to show similar growth over 2021-2026, at a CAGR of 2.5% Only the organic and free from categories grew faster. The organic packaged food market in Belgium is one of the smallest HW categories, valued at US$ 474.7 million in 2021. Organic packaged food sales increased by a CAGR of 4.2% over 2016-2021 and are expected to increase by a CAGR of 4.5% over 2021-2026.

Health and wellness packaged food retail value sales by product category - Historical and forecast sales in US$ millions and growth
Category 2016 2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 2022 2026 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026
HW packaged food total 4,516.4 5,146.5 2.6 5,217.1 5,823.6 2.5
Better for you 1,301.40 1,436.10 2.0 1,445.80 1,541.00 1.4
Fortified/ functional 837 928.8 2.1 942 1,042.80 2.3
Free from 219.3 350.4 9.8 380 545.3 9.2
Naturally healthy 1,771.80 1,956.60 2.0 1,955.70 2,103.70 1.5
Organic 386.8 474.7 4.2 493.7 590.9 4.5

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound Annual Growth Rate

Top three organic packaged food categories, in terms of retail sales, were organic dairy, accouting for 54.8% of Belgium's total organic packaged food market, with total retail sales of US$211.3 million in 2021, organic bread (21.0%, US$81.0 milion) and organic spreads (3.8%, US$14.7 million). Between 2016 and 2021, top three fastest growing organic packaged food categories were organic ready meals, which expanded at a CAGR of 8.4% with total retail sales valued at US$9.3 million in 2021, organic ice cream (CAGR 6.7%,US$1.8 million) and organic confectionary (CAGR 5.6%, US$10.5 million).

During the forecast period, the Belgian organic packaged food market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% and to be valued at CA$479.5 million by 2026. Organic ready meals is expected to see the fastest growth at a CAGR of 8.4%, reaching total retail sales of US$15.1 million by 2026. Ice cream is also forecast to show relatively higher growth than other organic packaged food categories, at a CAGR of 6.7%, reaching total retail value sales of US$2.6 million by 2026.

Organic packaged food retail value sales by product category - Historic retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic Packaged Food Total 331.0 342.8 355.0 366.3 378.6 385.5
Baby food 5.8 6.0 6.5 7.1 6.8 7.2
Bread 68.2 71.0 73.6 76.0 79.9 81.0
Breakfast cereals 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.5 2.6
Confectionery 8.0 9.0 9.9 10.6 10.4 10.5
Dairy 187.5 193.1 198.4 202.4 206.4 211.3
Edible oil 5.5 5.6 5.9 6.3 6.8 6.9
Frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 6.5 6.7 7.0 7.3 7.8 7.6
Ice cream 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.7 1.8
Ready meals 6.2 6.6 7.1 7.6 8.5 9.3
Rice, pasta and noodles 5.5 5.7 5.9 6.2 7.2 6.7
Sauces, dressings and condiments 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.9 3.9
Savoury snacks 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.9
Shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 6.0 6.1 6.3 6.5 6.9 6.7
Soup 1.6 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0
Spreads 11.9 12.4 13.0 14.0 14.8 14.7
Sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 10.0 10.3 10.7 11.2 11.2 11.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic packaged food retail value sales by product category - Historical retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic Packaged Food Total 1.8 3.1 16.5
Baby food 5.6 4.4 24.1
Bread 1.4 3.5 18.8
Breakfast cereals 3.8 5.4 30.0
Confectionery 1.0 5.6 31.3
Dairy 2.3 2.4 12.7
Edible oil 1.4 4.6 25.5
Frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables −2.6 3.2 16.9
Ice cream 5.6 6.7 38.5
Ready meals 8.6 8.4 50.0
Rice, pasta and noodles −7.5 4.0 21.8
Sauces, dressings and condiments 0.0 2.8 14.7
Savoury snacks 0.0 3.5 18.8
Shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables −3.0 2.2 11.7
Soup 5.0 4.6 25.0
Spreads −0.7 4.3 23.5
Sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 1.8 2.7 14.0

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic packaged food retail value sales by product category - Forecast retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic packaged food total 401.0 418.1 437.0 457.2 479.5
Baby food 7.8 8.5 9.3 10.3 11.6
Bread 83 85.4 88.1 90.9 93.9
Breakfast cereals 2.7 2.9 3.1 3.2 3.4
Confectionery 10.7 11.1 11.5 12.1 12.8
Dairy 220.2 229.8 240.4 251.9 264
Edible oil 7.2 7.6 8 8.3 8.7
Frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 7.8 8.1 8.3 8.6 8.9
Ice cream 2 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.6
Ready meals 10.3 11.4 12.6 13.8 15.1
Rice, pasta and noodles 7 7.3 7.6 8 8.5
Sauces, dressings and condiments 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5
Savoury snacks 2 2 2.1 2.2 2.3
Shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and Vegetables 6.9 7.1 7.3 7.5 7.8
Soup 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.3 2.4
Spreads 15.4 16.2 17.1 17.9 18.9
Sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 11.8 12.2 12.8 13.4 14.1
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic packaged food retail value sales by product category - Forecast retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic packaged food total 4.7 4.5 24.4
Baby food 11.2 10.0 61.1
Bread 3.2 3.0 15.9
Breakfast cereals 5.9 5.5 30.8
Confectionery 5.5 4.0 21.9
Dairy 4.6 4.6 24.9
Edible oil 4.6 4.7 26.1
Frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 3.4 3.2 17.1
Ice cream 7.7 7.6 44.4
Ready meals 8.6 10.2 62.4
rRce, pasta and noodles 5.9 4.9 26.9
Sauces, dressings and condiments 2.2 2.9 15.4
Savoury snacks 4.3 3.9 21.1
Shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and Vegetablbs 3.8 3.1 16.4
Soup 4.2 3.7 20.0
Spreads 5.3 5.2 28.6
Sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 5.0 4.3 23.7

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Competition

The Belgian organic packaged food market is dominated by private labels and small, other, and artisanal brands with total market share of 78.4% in 2021, which has been steady since 2016.. Pur Natur is the largest brand and company, in terms of retails sales, followed by Zuiver Zuivel and Céréal Bio.

Top 10 organic packaged food companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private label 209.2 54.2
Others 61.2 15.9
Artisanal 32.1 8.3
Pur Natur (Pur Natur NV) 23.9 6.2
Zuiver Zuivel (Weerribben Zuivel BV) 22.6 5.8
Céréal Bio (Otsuka Holdings Co Ltd) 9.8 2.5
Côte d'Or (Mondelez International Inc) 3.2 0.8
Hipp (Hipp GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG) 3.0 0.8
Danone (Danone, Groupe) 2.1 0.5
Bonneterre (Ecotone) 2.0 0.5
EFarmz (EFarmz SA) 1.8 0.5
Oxfam (Oxfam International) 1.8 0.5
Ethiquable (Oxfam International) 1.7 0.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

Distribution

Traditional retailers and supermarkets are the main outlets for organic packaged food sales. Ecommerce sales have grown steadily over 2016-2021 as Belgians have come to rely on online retailers as a result of the pandemic. However, according to a Euromonitor survey, only 9% of respondents (compared to 24% globally) say they buy items via social media platforms. Similarly, only 20% (compared to 37% globally) say they trust the information they get from their social media network while shopping. Over half (56%) reported that they did not interact with brands via their social media platforms, compared with a global average of 31%.

Distribution channels for organic packaged food in Belgium - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Outlet Type 2016 2021
Actual Share (%) Actual Share (%)
Total 482.2 581
Convenience stores 14.9 3.8 20.9 4.4
Discounters 20.7 5.4 28.4 6.0
Forecourt retailers 0.1 0.0 0.2 0.1
Hypermarkets 31.6 8.2 37.7 7.9
Supermarkets 215.8 55.8 262.8 55.4
Traditional grocery retailers 95.8 24.8 106.8 22.5
Food/drink/tobacco specialists 20.0 5.2 20.9 4.4
Independent small grocers 57.4 14.9 68.9 14.5
Other grocery retailers 18.4 4.7 17.1 3.6
E-commerce 7.5 2.0 17.3 3.8
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

Subsector analysis

Organic baby food

The organic baby food market in Belgium expanded by a CAGR of 4.4% over 2016-2021, recording total retail sales of US$ 7.2 million in 2021. By absolute value terms, prepared baby food was the largest sub-category, accounting for 48.6% of the total organic baby food retail sales (US$3.5 million) in 2021. Organic other baby food saw the highest growth at a CAGR of 8.4% between 2016 and 2021. Organic baby food is set to experience gradual growth at a CAGR of 10.0% over 2021-2026, with total retail sales of US$11.6 million by 2026.

With respect to competition, Hipp GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG maintained its leadership in organic baby food throughout 2016 and 2021. In 2021, Hipp GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG accounted for 41.7% of the total organic baby food market in Belgium. Other major players were Inex NV SA with a market share of 11.0% and Hero Group GmbH with a market share of 8.7% in 2021.

Organic baby food retail value sales by sub-category - Historic retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic Baby Food Total 5.8 6.0 6.5 7.1 6.8 7.2
Milk Formula 1.8 1.9 2.3 2.6 2.3 2.6
Prepared Baby Food 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5
Dried Baby Food 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8
Other Baby Food 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic baby food retail value sales by sub-category - Historical retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic Baby Food Total 5.6 4.4 24.1
Milk Formula 11.5 7.6 44.4
Prepared Baby Food 2.9 3.1 16.7
Dried Baby Food 0.0 2.7 14.3
Other Baby Food 0.0 8.4 50.0

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Top 5 organic baby food companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Hipp GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG 3.0 41.7
Inex NV SA 0.8 11.0
Hero Group GmbH 0.6 8.7
Holle Baby Food GmbH 0.4 5.4
Joannusmolen BV 0.2 3.0
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic baby food retail value sales by sub-category - Forecast retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic Baby Food Total 7.8 8.5 9.3 10.3 11.6
Milk Formula 2.9 3.4 3.9 4.7 5.7
Prepared Baby Food 3.7 3.9 4.1 4.3 4.5
Dried Baby Food 0.9 0.9 0.9 1.0 1.0
Other Baby Food 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic baby food retail value sales by sub-category - Forecast retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic Baby Food Total 11.2 10.0 61.1
Milk Formula 17.5 17.0 119.2
Prepared Baby Food 4.4 5.2 28.6
Dried Baby Food 0.0 4.6 25.0
Other Baby Food 0.0 5.9 33.3

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic bread, spreads and breakfast cereals

The Belgian organic bread market is highly fragmented, with sales led by private label and artisanal producers, which accounted for 87.8% of the total organic bread sales in 2021. From 2016 to 2021, this market saw slow growth at a CAGR of 3.5%, with total retail sales of US$81.0 million in 2021. It is expected to see slower growth over 2021-2026, at a CAGR of 3.0%, with total retail sales of US$93.9 million in 2026.

Belgian organic spreads is dominated by private labels and Pur Natur, with sales accounted for 48.3% and 38.3% of the total organic spreads respectively in 2021. From 2016 to 2021, this market saw growth at a CAGR of 4.3%, with total retail sales of US$14.7 million in 2021. It is expected to see similar growth during the forecast period (2021-2026), at a CAGR of 4.0%, with total retail sales of US$18.9 million by 2026.

The retail value sales of the organic breakfast cereals increased fast by a CAGR of 5.4% during the 2016-2021 period, with total retail sales of US$2.6 million in 2021. This market is forecast to see growth between 2021 and 2026, at a CAGR of 4.7% and to be valued at US$3.4 million by 2026. Private labels dominate the category, accounting for 86.3% of the total retail value sales in 2021, followed by ViadeliceBio (3.1%) and Nestle (2.1%).

Organic bread, breakfast cereals, and spreads retail value sales - Historic retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Breads 68.2 71.0 73.6 76.0 79.9 81.0
Breakfast cereals 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.5 2.6
Spreads total 11.9 12.4 13.0 14.0 14.8 14.7
Spreads 7.1 7.4 7.8 8.4 9.1 8.8
Honey 4.8 5.0 5.2 5.6 5.7 5.9
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic bread, breakfast cereals, and spreads retail value sales - Historical retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Breads 1.4 3.5 18.8
Breakfast cereals 3.8 5.4 30.0
Spreads total −0.7 4.3 23.5
Spreads −3.4 4.4 23.9
Honey 3.4 4.2 22.9

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic bread companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ million) Market share (%)
Otsuka Holdings Co Ltd 8.8 10.9
Private Label 39.7 49.0
Artisanal 31.4 38.8
Others 1.0 1.3
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic breakfast cereal companies in the Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Brand (company) Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private label 2.2 86.3
ViadéliceBio (ABCD Nutrition SA) 0.1 3.1
Nestlé (Cereal Partners Worldwide SA) 0.1 2.1
Others 0.1 5.8
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic spreads companies in the Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Brand (company) Retail sales (US$ million) Market share (%)
Private label 4.3 48.3
Pur Natur (Pur Natur NV) 3.4 38.3
NewTree (Newtree SA) 0.7 7.5
Penotti (Peeters Produkten BV) 0.3 3.0
Others 0.3 2.8
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic breakfast cereals and spreads retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Bread 83.0 85.4 88.1 90.9 93.9
Organic breakfast cereals 2.7 2.9 3.1 3.2 3.4
Organic spreads total 15.5 16.3 17 17.9 18.9
Spreads 9.3 9.8 10.3 10.9 11.6
Honey 6.2 6.5 6.7 7.0 7.3
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic breakfast cereals and spreads retail value sales growth (%)
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Bread 3.2 3.0 15.9
Organic breakfast cereals 5.9 4.7 25.9
Organic spreads total 5.3 4.0 21.9
Spreads 6.0 4.5 24.7
Honey 4.1 3.3 17.7

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic ready meals and cooking ingredients

Organic ready meals have grown steadily since 2016. Consumers who did not have the skills or the time to cook from scratch due to home seclusion during the pandemic turned to ready meals. In particular, consumers turned to meal kits if they did not feel confident in the kitchen. These products contain all the necessary ingredients to make specific meals and are easy to prepare.

The organic ready meals saw continued growth at a CAGR of 8.4% over 2016-2021 with total retail sales of US$9.3 million in 2021. This market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 10.2% between 2021 and 2026, reaching total retail sales of US$15.1 million by 2026. Private labels lead Belgium's organic ready meal company, accounting for 55.4% of the organic ready meal sales in 2021. EFarmz is the leading brand or ready meals with 19.1% of this market in 2021.

The organic sauce, dressing and condiment market grew at a CAGR of 2.8% during the 2016-2021 period, with total retail sales valued at US$3.9 million in 2021. This sector is expected to see a moderate growth at a CAGR of 2.9% over 2021-2026 with sales of US$4.5 million by 2026. Private labels and other brands dominate the market with 62.4% share combined. Leading brands include Biofood (13.4%), Lima (13.2%) and Heinz (6.6%).

Retail sales of organic soup increased by a CAGR of 4.6% between 2016 and 2021, with total retail sales of US$2.0 million in 2021. The organic soup market is expected to see slow growth at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2021 to 2026, reaching total retail sales of US$2.4 million by 2026. Lima and Vetara lead the market with 29.8% and 15.3% market shares. Private labels and others combine for 29.9% Market share.

Historic organic cooking ingredients and meals retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic vegetable and seed oil 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.5 2.7 2.8
Organic ready meals 6.2 6.6 7.1 7.6 8.5 9.3
Organic sauces, dressings and condiments 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.9 3.9
Organic soup 1.6 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Historic organic cooking ingredients and ready meals retail sales growth (%)
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic vegetable and seed oil 3.6 5.9 33.3
Organic ready meals 8.6 8.4 50.0
Organic sauces, dressings and condiments 0.0 2.8 14.7
Organic soup 5.0 4.6 25.0

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic ready meal companies' retail sales and market share in 2021
Brand (company) Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private label 5.1 55.4
EFarmz (EFarmz SA) 1.8 19.1
Others 1.7 18.1
Foodmaker (Foodmaker NV) 0.5 5.6
Bioline (Bioline Europe NV) 0.1 1.0
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic sauce, dressing and condiment companies' retail sales and market share in 2021
Brand (company) Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private label 1.6 41.8
Others 0.8 20.6
Biofood (Damhert NV SA) 0.5 13.4
Lima (Hain Celestial Group Inc, The) 0.5 13.2
Heinz (Kraft Heinz Co) 0.3 6.6
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic soup companies' retail sales and market share in 2021
Brand (company) Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Lima (Hain Celestial Group Inc, The) 0.6 29.8
Vetara (Udea BV) 0.3 15.3
Others 0.3 15.3
Private label 0.3 14.6
La Ferme d'Anchin (Destombes SARL) 0.3 14.5
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic cooking ingredients and ready meals retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic vegetable and seed oil 3.0 3.1 3.3 3.5 3.6
Organic ready meals 10.3 11.4 12.6 13.8 15.1
Organic sauces, dressings and condiments 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5
Organic soup 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.3 2.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic cooking ingredients and ready meals retail sales growth (%)
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic vegetable and seed oil 2.8 5.2 28.6
Organic ready meals 8.6 10.2 62.4
Organic sauces, dressings and condiments 2.2 2.9 15.4
Organic soup 4.2 3.7 20.0

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic dairy

The Belgian organic dairy market grew at a CAGR of 12.7% over 2016 to 2021, recording total retail sales of US$211.3 million in 2021. In absolute value terms, organic milk was the largest sub-category, accounting for 54.8% of the total organic dairy retail sales (US$211.3 million) in 2021. Flavoured milk drinks sub saw the fastest growth at a CAGR of 25.0% between 2016 and 2021. Organic dairy sector is forecast to see slower growth at a CAGR of 4.6% over 2021 to 2026, reaching total retail sales of US$264.0 million by 2026.

The Belgian organic dairy market is dominated by private labels and other brands, which accounted for 78.0% of the total organic dairy sales in 2021. Weerribben Zuivel BV was the only company with double digit market share, with a market share of 10.7% in 2021.

Organic dairy retail value sales by sub-category - Historic retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic Dairy Total 187.5 193.1 198.4 202.4 206.4 211.3
Butter and Spreads 4.9 5.0 5.1 5.4 5.5 5.6
Cheese 60.7 62.8 64.8 66.1 68.5 70.7
Cream 1.9 2.0 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.2
Flavoured Milk Drinks 0.8 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 1.0
Fromage Frais and Quark 3.5 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.7 3.8
Yoghurt 30.0 31.3 32.5 34.4 33.7 34.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic dairy retail value sales by sub-category - Historical retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic Dairy Total 2.3 2.4 12.7
Butter and Spreads 1.8 2.7 14.3
Cheese 3.1 3.1 16.5
Cream 0.0 3.0 15.8
Flavoured Milk Drinks 10.0 4.6 25.0
Fresh Cheese and Quark 2.6 1.7 8.6
Yoghurt 2.0 2.8 14.7

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Top 5 organic dairy companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private Label 130.1 61.6
Others 34.7 16.4
Weerribben Zuivel BV 22.6 10.7
Pur Natur NV 20.4 9.6
Danone, Groupe 2.1 1.0
Rapunzel Naturkost GmbH 0.6 0.3
Lactalis, Groupe 0.6 0.3
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic dairy retail value sales by sub-category - Forecast retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic Dairy Total 220.2 229.8 240.4 251.9 264.0
Butter and Spreads 5.9 6.1 6.5 6.8 7.3
Cheese 74.0 77.4 81.2 85.2 89.6
Cream 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7
Flavoured Milk Drinks 1.0 1.1 1.1 1.2 1.3
Fresh Cheese and Quark 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.4 4.5
Yoghurt 36.0 37.8 39.8 42.1 44.5
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic dairy retail value sales by sub-category - Forecast retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic Dairy Total 4.6 4.6 24.9
Butter and Spreads 6.8 5.4 30.4
Cheese 4.9 4.9 26.7
Cream 3.7 4.2 22.7
Flavoured Milk Drinks 7.7 5.4 30.0
Fresh Cheese and Quark 2.2 3.4 18.4
Yoghurt 5.4 5.3 29.4

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic processed meat, seafood, fruits and vegetable

Retail sales of organic frozen meat, seafood, fruits and vegetable segment increased by a CAGR of 3.2% during the 2016 to 2021 period, with total retail sales of US$7.6 million in 2021. This market contracted by 2.6% between 2020 and 2021. However, it is forecast to recover in 2022 and expand by a CAGR of 3.2% over 2022 to 2026, reaching total retail sales of US$8.6 million by 2026.

The organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruits and vegetable sector grew at a CAGR of 2.2% during the 2016 to 2021 period, with total retail sales valued at US$6.7 million in 2021. This category contracted by 3.0% between 2020 and 2021, but is expected to see a moderate growth at a CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period and to be valued at US$7.5 million by 2026.

According to Euromonitor, environmental concerns and the focus on animal welfare could positively impact sales of frozen meat and seafood during the forecast period. In addition, more consumers may opt for organic or higher-quality frozen meat and seafood for health and sustainability, even if this means paying a price premium and moderating the quantity they consume.

Historic organic frozen/shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 6.5 6.7 7.0 7.3 7.8 7.6
Organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 6.0 6.1 6.3 6.5 6.9 6.7
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic frozen/shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable retail sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables −2.6 3.2 16.9
Organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and segetables −3.0 2.2 11.7

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable companies in Belgium in 2021
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Others 4.3 56.6
Private label 3.3 43.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable companies in Belgium in 2021
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Others 5.4 80.0
Private label 1.3 20.0
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic frozen/shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 7.6 7.8 8.1 8.3 8.6
Organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 6.7 6.9 7.1 7.3 7.5
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic frozen/shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetable retail sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic frozen meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 3.4 3.2 17.1
Organic shelf stable meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables 3.8 3.1 16.4

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic rice and pasta

During the 2016 to 2021 period, the Belgian organic rice and pasta market saw growth at a CAGR of 4.0% and was valued at US$36.7 million in 2021. Compared to other organic packaged food categories, organic rice and pasta category underperformed and contracted by 7.5% between 2020 and 2021. According to Euromonitor (2022), the decline in sales could have been due to the stockpiling effect during the 2020 panic-buying period, which limited new purchases in 2021. This market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.9%, reaching total retail sales of US$8.5 million by 2026.

In 2021, the retail value sales of the Belgium organic rice and past sector are led by Private labels with a market share of 64.9%, followed by Oxfam international (14.3%) and Hain Celestial Group (7.3%).

Organic rice and pasta retail value sales - Historic retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic Rice and Pasta Total 5.5 5.7 5.9 6.2 7.2 6.7
Rice 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 2.0 1.9
Pasta 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.5 5.2 4.8
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic rice and pasta retail value sales - Historical retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic Rice and Pasta Total −7.5 4.0 21.8
Organic Rice −5.3 4.8 26.7
Organic Pasta −8.3 3.7 20.0

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Top 5 organic rice and pasta companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private Label 3.7 64.9
Oxfam International 0.8 14.3
Hain Celestial Group Inc, The 0.4 7.3
Others 0.4 7.3
Barilla Holding SpA 0.2 3.4
Soubry Joseph NV 0.2 2.7
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic rice and pasta retail value sales - Forecast retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic Rice and Pasta Total 7.0 7.3 7.6 8.0 8.5
Organic Rice 2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.6
Organic Pasta 5.0 5.2 5.4 5.6 5.9
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic rice and pasta retail value sales - Forecast retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic Rice and Pasta Total 5.9 4.9 26.9
Organic Rice 7.7 6.5 36.8
Organic Pasta 5.1 4.2 22.9

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic snacks

The Belgian organic confectionery market grew at a CAGR of 5.6% over 2016-2021, with total retail sales of US$10.5 million in 2021. This market is expected to expand by a CAGR of 4.0% over 2021-2026 and to be valued at US$12.8 million by 2026. Private label is the leading chocolate confectionery brand in Belgium, with a market share of 32.4% in 2021, followed by Mondelez (30.8% and other brands (17.3%).

The organic ice cream sector saw growth at a CAGR of 6.7% over 2016-2021, with total retail sale of US$1.8 million in 2021. This market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 7.6% over 2021-2026, reaching total retail sales of US$2.6 million by 2026. Private labels and artisanal brands are the leading organic ice cream brands with a combined market share of 76.7% in 2021, followed by Pur Natur and Glace Morane.

The retail value sales of the organic savoury snacks category increased by a CAGR of 3.5% over 2016-2021, with total retail sales valued at US$1.9 million in 2021. Organic savoury snacks are expected to recover and see moderate growth at a CAGR of 3.9% over 2021-2026, with total retail saled of US$2.2 million by 2026. The sales of this sector is dominated by nuts, seeds and trail mix by private labels and other brands, representing 66.6% of the market in 2021.

The organic sweet snack category saw growth at a CAGR of 2.7% over 2016-2021, with total retail sales of US$11.4 million in 2021. The retail sales of this market is expected to increase by a CAGR of 23.7% over 2021-2026, reaching total retail sales of US$13.4 million by 2026. The organic sweet snack market in Belgium is dominated by private labels and other brands, making up 68.1%, with other companies earning single digit market shares. Cereal Bio is the leading sweet snack company, followed by Oxfam, Biosoleil, and Bjorg.

According to Euromonitor, sales of organic snacks could benefit with more consumers returning to their pre-pandemic habits since organic snacks are not only a convenient option but also perceived as healthier. Consumers will also continue looking for options that are better for them as well as better for the environment.

Historic organic snacks retail sales in US$ millions
Category 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Organic Confectionery 8.0 9.0 9.9 10.6 10.4 10.5
Organic Ice Cream 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.5 1.7 1.8
Organic sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 10.0 10.3 10.7 11.2 11.2 11.4
Organic cereal bars 2.3 2.3 2.4 2.6 2.4 2.4
Organic fruit snacks 0.9 0.9 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.0
Organic sweet biscuits 6.9 7.1 7.4 7.7 7.9 8.0
Organic savoury snacks 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.9
Organic nuts, seeds and trail mixes 1.6 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.9
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Historic organic snacks retail sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2020-2021 CAGR* (%) 2016-2021 Total growth (%) 2016-2021
Organic Confectionery 1.0 5.6 31.3
Organic Ice Cream 5.6 6.7 38.5
Organic sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 1.8 2.7 14.0
Organic cereal bars 0.0 0.9 4.3
Organic fruit snacks 0.0 2.1 11.1
Organic sweet biscuits 1.3 3.0 15.9
Organic savoury snacks 0.0 3.5 18.8
Organic nuts, seeds and trail mixes 0.0 3.5 18.8

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

Organic confectionery companies in belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private Label 3.4 32.4
Mondelez International Inc 3.2 30.8
Others 1.8 17.3
Oxfam International 1.7 16.5
Libeert SA 0.2 1.5
Belvas SA 0.1 1.4
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic ice cream companies in Belgium in 2021 - Retail value sales in US$ millions and market share
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private Label 0.7 39.3
Artisanal 0.7 37.4
Pur Natur NV 0.1 8.2
Glaces Morane 0.1 8.2
Others 0.1 6.9
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic savory snack companies in Belgium in 2021
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Others 0.8 42.1
Private label 0.5 24.5
Markal (Markal SAS) 0.4 20.5
Ekoland (Udea BV) 0.2 13.0
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Organic sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks companies in Belgium in 2021
Company Retail sales (US$ millions) Market share (%)
Private label 6.3 55.3
Others 1.5 12.8
Céréal Bio (Otsuka Holdings Co Ltd) 1.0 8.8
Oxfam (Oxfam International) 0.8 7.0
Biosoleil (Alpes Biscuits Sarl) 0.8 6.8
Bjorg (Ecotone) 0.8 6.6
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic snacks retail value sales in US$ millions
Category 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026
Organic Confectionery 10.7 11.1 11.5 12.1 12.8
Organic Ice Cream 2.0 2.1 2.3 2.4 2.6
Organic sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 11.4 11.8 12.2 12.8 13.4
Organic cereal bars 2.4 2.5 2.5 2.6 2.7
Organic fruit snacks 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.1
Organic sweet biscuits 8.0 8.3 8.7 9.1 9.6
Organic savoury snacks 1.9 2.0 2.0 2.1 2.2
Organic nuts, seeds and trail mixes 1.9 2.0 2.0 2.1 2.2
Source: Euromonitor International, 2022
Forecast organic snacks retail value sales growth
Category Annual growth (%) 2021-2022 CAGR* (%) 2021-2026 Total growth (%) 2021-2026
Organic Confectionery 5.5 4.0 21.9
Organic Ice Cream 7.7 7.6 44.4
Organic sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks 5.0 4.3 23.7
Organic cereal bars 3.6 3.1 16.7
Organic fruit snacks 0.0 1.9 10.0
Organic sweet biscuits 5.9 5.0 27.5
Organic savoury snacks 4.3 3.9 21.1
Organic nuts, seeds and trail mixes 4.3 3.9 21.1

Source: Euromonitor International, 2022

*CAGR: Compound annual growth rate

New product launch analysis

From 2017 to 2021, 1,955 organic packaged food products were introduced in Belgium, with the highest number of new products launched in 2021. The most popular product claim was for environmentally friendly packaging, followed by low/no/reduced allergen and vegan/no animal ingredients. Companies with the highest number of new product launches was Carrefour, followed by Colruy and Albert Heijn. Nearly half of product launches were new products. The top five packaging types were flexible packaging, bottle, jar, tub, and carton.

New product launches of organic packaged food products in Belgium, 2017 to 2021
Product attributes Number of new products by year Total
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Yearly product launches 273 364 433 396 489 1955
Top 10 claims
Ethical - Environmentally Friendly Package 48 87 136 150 176 597
Low/No/Reduced Allergen 84 97 121 105 111 518
Vegan/No Animal Ingredients 74 99 119 91 133 516
Gluten Free 79 80 105 87 102 453
Ethical - Sustainable (Habitat/Resources) 34 74 114 95 125 442
Ethical - Recycling 34 48 74 103 101 360
Ethical - Environmentally Friendly Product 26 63 101 69 98 357
Ethical - Human 25 70 96 58 99 348
Social Media 28 37 79 74 74 292
No Additives/Preservatives 31 38 44 46 71 230
Top 10 companies
Carrefour 2 5 20 12 9 48
Colruyt 4 2 9 21 9 45
Albert Heijn 0 0 8 34 2 44
Rapunzel Naturkost 8 6 0 0 24 38
Nutrition & Santé 8 2 5 5 0 20
Pur Natur 2 5 5 5 2 19
Delhaize Group 7 1 4 6 1 19
Groupe Ekibio 2 3 2 7 5 19
De Smaakspecialist 0 6 5 1 6 18
EcoFinia 1 5 12 0 0 18
Top 5 flavours (including blend)
Unflavoured/Plain 99 114 139 134 183 669
Chocolate 3 8 8 11 10 40
Lemon 0 6 8 4 4 22
Hazelnut 1 3 6 2 7 19
Coconut 5 4 3 2 5 19
Top 5 ingredients
Waters (Food) 68 75 104 98 74 419
Cane Sugar (Food) 51 72 84 81 84 372
Sea Salt (Food) 61 77 71 63 72 344
Sunflower Seed Oil (Food) 43 61 63 72 83 322
Salt (Food) 41 50 64 81 71 307
Launch types
New Product 200 231 208 146 239 1,024
New Variety/Range Extension 65 107 189 199 207 767
New Packaging 4 20 31 45 34 134
Relaunch 2 3 4 3 7 19
New Formulation 2 3 1 3 2 11
Top 5 package types
Flexible 96 123 188 171 196 774
Bottle 42 49 35 27 80 233
Jar 26 38 26 49 78 217
Tub 34 42 38 41 33 188
Carton 20 37 54 25 22 158
Product origin
Imported 79 76 109 73 95 432
Not imported 9 47 61 48 54 219
Source: Mintel GNPD, 2022

New product examples

Organic Clover Honey
Manufacturer Weyn's Honingbedrijf
Brand Weyn's
Category Sweet spreads
Sub-category Honey
Market Belgium
Store name Het Natuurhuis
Store type Natural / health food store
Price in US dollars 10.10
 

Weyn's Miel de Trèfle Bio (Organic Clover Honey) has been added to the range. The artisan product from Argentina retails in a 450 gram pack bearing the EU Organic logo.

Dark Chocolate Rawnola
Manufacturer All Good
Brand All Good by Julie's Lifestyle
Category Breakfast cereals
Sub-category Cold cereals
Market Belgium
Store name Het Natuurhuis
Store type Natural / health food store
Price in US dollars 12.48
 

All Good by Julie's Lifestyle Chocolat Pur Rawnola (Dark Chocolate Rawnola) comprises a crunchy raw granola with sprouted buckwheat, almonds, dates and the intense flavour of pure cacao. The vegan and keto friendly product is said to provide premium taste and maximum pleasure, and can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack on-the-go. It is high fibre, is sweetened with dates and maple syrup, and is free from gluten and lactose. The product retails in a 250 gram pack bearing the EU Organic logo.

Protein Bowl Soup
Manufacturer Allos Hof-Manufaktur
Brand Allos Soup!
Category Soup
Sub-category Wet soup
Market Belgium
Store name Bio Planet
Store type Natural / health food store
Price in US dollars 3.42
 

Allos Soup! Soupe Biologique de Lentilles, Pois Chiches et Protéine de Soja (Protein Bowl Soup) is now available. This certified organic product comprises chickpeas and lentils and is suitable for vegans. It can be heated in a pot or in a microwave, and retails in a 350 gram pack sufficient for one serving, bearing the EU Organic logo.

Organic Spicy Nasi Balls
Manufacturer Delhaize Le Lion / De Leeuw
Brand Delhaize Veggie
Category Snacks
Sub-category Hors d'oeuvres / Canape
Market Belgium
Store name Delhaize
Store type Supermarket
Price in US dollars 3.33
 

Delhaize Veggie Boulettes Nasi Bio Spicy (Organic Spicy Nasi Balls) have been added to the range. The vegetarian product is rich in proteins and a source of fibres. It scores an A on the Nutri-Score and retails in a 150 gram 100% recycled pack containing 12 units and featuring the EU Organic and FSC Mix logos.

Organic standards and labelling

Belgium follows EU regulations pertaining to organic products. Foods may only be marked as "organic" if at least 95% of their ingredients are organic. Organic ingredients in non-organic food may be listed as organic in the list of ingredients, as long as the ingredient have been produced in accordance with EU organic legislation.

European Union organic farming logo

Organic products sold in Belgium must display EU's organic farming logo. The distribution of organic products from non-EU countries in the EU market is only permitted when they are produced and controlled under equivalent conditions as those for EU organic producers, for example, the Canada-EU organic equivalency agreement.

The EU - Canada Organic Equivalency Arrangement (EUCOEA) allows for Canadian products to be exported and marketed as organic to Belgium, provided they are certified under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Canada Organic Regime or EU organic system. Visit European Union - Canada Organic Equivalency Arrangement (EUCOEA) overview for an overview of the EUCOEA. A list of certification bodies accredited by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency can be found on the List of certification bodies under the Canada Organic Regime page.

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Resources

Health and Wellness Series – Organic packaged food trends in Belgium
Global Analysis Report

Prepared by: Kris Clipsham, Market Analyst

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