Organic products: regulation and market sizing in São Paulo State

Abstract

This study aimed to systematize and analyze the process of standardization and market certification of organic products, as well as to measure this market in the different segments that make it up in the state of São Paulo, focusing on Organic, Biodynamic and Natural technological standards. A notion of agro-food systems, guided by parameters of sustainability (economic, environmental and sociocultural) was used as reference analysis. For measuring the market, previous studies were used, from which estimates were developed with information collected in the field. Interviews were carried out with 5 certification companies, 20 producers, 4 distributors and 105 consumers in different regions of São Paulo State. As a result of research, a strong growth of supply and demand of organic products can be highlighted, with relative price stability. Given the problems observed in the marketing of these credence goods, the 2011 incoming new legislation may help in the organization and regulation of the sector as a whole.