The Dutch ate 25% more organic and other sustainable food in 2012, taking turnover to €2.2bn, according to the latest sustainable food monitor published by research institute LEI.

Sustainable foods distinguish themselves from other foods by their means of production, which is animal friendly, organic, environmentally friendly or ethical. Their popularity has been boosted by a number of food scandals in recent months.

The consumption of sustainable foods has doubled in just three years. ‘This shows society finds these foods increasingly important,’ junior economics minister Sharon Dijksma told Nos news.

Last year 5.5% of all food sold was sustainable, compared with 4.4% in 2011. And the growth was seen in all outlets, from supermarkets and company canteens to petrol stations and care homes.

Organic food accounted for 42% of the total increase, animal friendly for 21% and sustainable agriculture for 19%.