Survey shows majority of Americans are “value seekers” but refuse to swap quality for low prices

ore Americans than ever are choosing natural and/or organic foods according to the fifth annual Whole Foods Market® Food Shopping Trend Tracker Survey. The research revealed that nearly three out of four Americans (73 percent) don’t want to compromise on the quality of the food they buy regardless of current food prices and nearly two-thirds (64 percent) describe themselves as “value seekers” when it comes to grocery shopping.

The survey, conducted online within the U.S. by Harris Interactive on behalf of Whole Foods Market from August 3-7, 2012 among 2,274 adults age 18 and older, found nearly three out of four Americans (71 percent) prefer to buy natural and/or organic foods over conventional foods if prices are comparable. One in four Americans (27 percent) are devoting more than a quarter of their grocery dollars to natural and/or organic products, up 35 percent from four years ago.

“We see that Americans from all demographics are seeking more natural and organic foods; especially if the price is right,” said A.C. Gallo, president and COO of Whole Foods Market. “We don’t believe shoppers should have to sacrifice quality for price, so we aim to offer high quality food that fits every budget through competitive pricing and expanding our 365 Everyday Value line.”

Further, the research disclosed that many Americans are willing to pay more for foods that meet certain criteria:

Nearly half (47 percent) are willing to pay higher prices for locally produced foods
Nearly a third (32 percent) are willing to pay more for foods with no artificial ingredients, preservatives or colorings
Nearly one out of three (30 percent) are willing to pay more for meats raised with no antibiotics or added growth hormones and one in four (24 percent) are willing to pay more for meats raised under humane animal husbandry standards
Aside from price, a majority of Americans say the overall quality (88 percent) and selection (85 percent) of products, regular sales and promotions (76 percent) and trust in the grocery retailers (76 percent) are very or fairly important when grocery shopping.

  Organic, Survey, Trends, USA, Whole Foods