Consumer spending on more ‘sustainable’ food rose 18% last year and now accounts for 7% of the national groceries bill, according to a new economic affairs ministry report.

In total, consumers spent €2.6bn on more animal and environment friendly foodstuffs, of which €1.1bn went on organic food. This is a rise of 6% on 2013, the report said.

The rise was biggest – 74% – in the contract catering sector and in cafes and restaurants.

‘People are increasingly prepared to spend more money on honest and equitable products,’ junior minister Sharon Dijksma said in a statement. ‘That is not only good news for animal welfare and the environment but for all food producers who are making the change.’

Sales of fair trade and organic coffee rose 52%, while egg sales were up 40%. There was a slight drop in the sale of more animal friendly meat but this is most likely due to an overall drop in meat consumption, the ministry said.