Although they're tightening their spending due to economic concerns, nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of U.S. families are purchasing organic products -- at least occasionally -- for health reasons.

Organic food sales now account for approximately 3.5 percent of all U.S. food product sales and annual category sales.

The American Meat Institute said it hired the sales analysis firm, ethnoMetrics Inc., Stevensville, Mich., to "enhance the purchase experience" of those buyers and sellers.

The Organic Trade Association (OTA), Greenfield, Mass., said it hired Christine Bushway as the organization's executive director.