Scottish farmers now produce enough organic food to meet 70 per cent of the nation's demand, a report has found.

This is up from an estimated 35 per cent in 2002, according to the Scottish Executive report.

The report also revealed that the area of good quality organic land has increased from just 15 per cent in 2002 to 28 per cent in 2006.

Environment and rural development minister Sarah Boyack, who launched the Scottish Executive's third annual progress report on its 2003 Organic Action Plan, said: "The Organic Action Plan set two challenges for the organic sector.

"One, to create the conditions so that Scottish farmers can supply 70 per cent of the demand for organic food that can be sourced in Scotland; and two, to work with the sector to achieve its potential to double the area of good quality agricultural land in organic conversion or production by 2007."

She added: "The opportunities for Scottish organic producers and retailers are clear.

"The UK organic market now stands at £1.6bn, an increase of over 30 per cent on last year compared to the annual current growth for all UK food and drink sales of around three per cent.

"We are committed to working with the industry to develop the Scottish organic sector even further."