The congress will take place in Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK from 6 to 9 January 2005.
"Researchers involved or interested in agricultural research are urged to attend and to contribute to discussions on the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7)," the organisers, leaders of the EU funded project Quality Low Input Food (QLIF) and the UK's Soil Association, commented.
According to organic market analysts Organic Monitor, dairy is one of the fastest growing organic categories, with 2004 sales up on the previous year by 12.5 per cent.
Organic milk and yoghurt are the segments reporting the highest levels of growth, with sales of organic dairy products set to remain buoyant throughout 2005.
A number of innovative organic dairy products have been launched in recent years onto the UK market, including organic milk with functional ingredients, flavoured organic milk, and Greek-style organic yoghurts. The introduction of organic dairy products under supermarket private labels has also boosted sales growth.
Future market growth is also predicted to be driven by scientific research into the health benefits of organic milk, and by a greater penetration into the foodservice and catering sector.
Research studies have shown organic milk to have more omega acids and conjugated linoleic acid than conventional milk. Growing scientific research on the health and nutritious properties of organic milk is expected to strengthen consumer demand. There is also growing demand for organic dairy products from restaurants, cafés, schools and catering companies, reports Organic Monitor.
"The organic dairy products market is envisaged to continue to show healthy growth in spite of retail prices increasing in 2005. The leading producers are re-positioning their organic brands and this is widening consumer demand for organic dairy products," said the analysts.
Leading UK organic foods supplier Yeo Valley Organic, for example, has relaunched its organic ice creams and frozen yoghurts as part of a strategy to reposition its organic dairy products. New packaging was introduced in June and marketing campaigns are supporting the relaunch.