Data and methodology 

The data is collected via eight certifier bodies and is then sent and compiled by the Department of Environment, Forestry, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The methodology can be found in the UK Government’s organic farming statistics methodology page. The Scotland data was processed and analysed by the Agricultural Statistics team within the Rural and Environment Science & Analytical Services (RESAS) Division of the Scottish Government.  

Organic farming statistics for Scotland are also published by DEFRA as part of their Organic farming in the UK statistics publication. While the source data for this publication was provided by DEFRA, additional quality assurance could lead to minor differences in results. We will continue to work with DEFRA to ensure coherence between both publications. 

Percentage changes are based on the exact values rather than the rounded values.  

The data used in this publication are available online in the supporting documents.  

Code relating to the production of our statistics can be requested from agric.stats@gov.scot.  

The organic area referred to is fully organic land only unless otherwise stated.  

A breakdown of organic farming in the United Kingdom can be found in the UK Government’s online organic farming statistics collection.  

Organic farming in Scotland publications from previous years can be found in the Scottish Government’s online organic farming statistics collection.  

Locations described are based on 2021 ITL2 regions of Scotland.