Sales of natural and organic personal care (N&OPC) and household products continued on an upward swing in 2008, though the rate of growth slowed from 2007, according to a new report by Nutrition Business Journal.

Including everything from cosmetics and hair care to deodorants and shaving supplies in the personal care category, and items such as pet food, household cleaners, linens and clothing in the household category, NBJ's Natural & Organic Personal Care & Household Products report shows combined sales growing 12.7% to $10.4 billion in 2008.

The personal care category grew 8.4% to$7.9 billion in 2008, which is a significant drop in growth from 2007, when N&OPC sales jumped 16.8% to $7.3 billion.

NBJ surveyed and interviewed more than 80 companies and experts for the report, which is available at Nutritionbusinessjournal.com.