The Growth of Eco-Products in 2008

A recent report from Mintel, a consultancy service based in Chicago, is predicting mass marketers will shift to eco-products in 2008 as consumer demand increases.

The consumer packaged goods categories that will experience the changes are as follows:

1. Bottled Water - Because of its negative effects on the environment and data that shows that bottled water in not necessarily any healthier and in some cases just tap water, consumers are switching from bottled water to filtering their tap water and using reusable water bottles.

2. Cosmetics - A shift to more natural and mineral based ingredients.

3. Fair Trade and Equal Exchange - Demand continues to increases and I think with more questionable imports hitting our shelves we could experience a dynamic shift in this area as well as purchasing locally made products.

4. Organic Food and Whole Grains - Health and wellness awareness will continue to feed this growth.

5. Salt - Yes, salt. A shift in demand for sea salts,red clay salts and flavoured salts will happen next year.

6. Luxury Home Care - Products like scented candles, exotic fragrances and surface cleaners from high-end producers.

7. Personal Care - Products in this category will continue to experience the split between the lower-cost items and the higher-cost products that add benefits like anti-aging and sun protection.

Do you think this will help the planet both environmentally and socially? I do as long at the standards, regulations and labeling stays honest and accurate and does not become clouded and fuzzy for the few. When I read how the Organic standards have been changing to fit large corporations I can't help but wonder what will happen to areas where standards are practically non-existent like in the bottled water industry or the use of the word "natural".

What do you think, is this report good news for you and your business?