Research is invariably a risky undertaking. Setting research priorities should involve assessing the likely benefits from research, taking into account the probability that useful conclusions can be drawn and changes implemented. Undoubtedly, assessing these benefits is difficult, but too often a discussion of research is little more than the presentation of a wish list, reflecting the interests of the author. In general, very little attention seems to be given to prioritising research topics. Although it is clear that different countries' needs vary, this is difficult to discern when considering research agendas.
Most current research appears to relate to farm production.
Agriculture, horticulture and animal husbandry are all mentioned, apart from the more general issues such as nutrient and nutrient cycles, pest management, cultivation and rotation systems. This emphasis to date on farm production may be misplaced. While the ability to produce efficiently is obviously important, most of the consumer expenditure goes to the downstream post production sectors, such as transport, wholesaling and retailing. Generating a market for the product is as important as growing the raw product. This is being recognised in countries with more mature organic industries.