International snacks

The snacks section is becoming a platform for innovation: brands are actively experimenting with salty snacks, such as popcorn, to which they add new international flavors. Such fusion products can attract the attention of a wide audience and inspire consumers to try something unusual.

This trend provides an opportunity to discover different cultures of the world. It offers a combination of classic international snacks with original ideas. For example, a mixture of nuts with chili peppers and edamame oil, or original dried mangoes flavored with our signature chili powder.

Crispy textures

From crunchy cereals and muesli to fermented nuts, roasted chickpeas and mushroom chips, consumers are increasingly looking for products that add variety and texture to their breakfasts. Brands are refining popular chili chips to create even crunchier versions, and textured spices are becoming the main focus of salads and roasted vegetables.

Dehydrated fruits and candies are gaining popularity on social media as consumers appreciate their light and airy crunch. This trend is even making its way into drinks and desserts, from crème brulee and espresso martinis to pistachio-filled pastries.

Maintaining hydration

The popularity of reusable water bottles has already peaked, but consumers are now expecting more from regular H2O. They are looking for drinks with additional electrolytes and innovative ways to keep them hydrated. This trend is evident at product exhibitions, where new products such as electrolyte popsicles, sparkling coconut water, chlorophyll water, and even protein drinks are being introduced.

Alternatives are emerging on the market, such as cactus water with antioxidants and electrolytes, which is becoming a healthier option to replace sugary and artificially colored sports drinks. Even children can join the trend with interesting drinks in sachet formats or miniature coconuts with bright flavors.

Tea and its varieties

Tea is becoming more and more popular and is present literally everywhere – from desserts and granola with tea flavors to new brewing formats such as tea strips, cold brew bags in water bottles, and tea powders.

New products, such as herbal milk teas and sparkling teas, are also gaining momentum. Instead of the usual happy hours for adults, retro-style tea parties are gaining popularity, where consumers are looking not only for taste but also for benefits – drinks with adaptogens and other useful additives.

A new level of composting

Companies that have not yet completely abandoned packaging are increasingly choosing compostable materials and creating packaging that is partially or fully biodegradable. Some brands are going a step further and developing packaging that can be composted at home, without the need for specialized industrial facilities. In the fruit industry, they are working on creating product labels that can also be composted in commercial composting facilities.

More environmentally friendly beverages

Conscious alcohol brands strive to minimize their environmental impact. While natural and organic wines are no longer a novelty, companies are moving towards regenerative production methods and environmentally friendly packaging. For example, some companies plan to reduce the weight of bottles by 25% by 2026. At the same time, breweries and whiskey producers are experimenting with using ingredients such as drought-resistant fonio grain or kernel grown on regenerative farms.

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Increasing soil fertility through composting

Organic farmers actively use composting to improve soil fertility. This not only improves soil structure, but also reduces soil erosion, which is an important aspect in the fight against climate change. More fertile soil retains moisture, which helps farms withstand droughts.

Water conservation through mulching and crop rotation

Mulching and crop rotation are important methods that organic farmers use to conserve water in the soil. Mulch helps retain moisture, lowers soil temperature, and reduces the need for additional irrigation. Crop rotation, in turn, contributes to soil health by helping to preserve soil structure and nutrients.

Use of local plant varieties

Organic farmers are increasingly turning to the use of local plant varieties that are better adapted to local conditions and can withstand extreme weather conditions. The choice of such varieties ensures high resistance to diseases and pests, reduces the need for chemicals and reduces the risk of losses.

Multifunctional agricultural landscapes

Organic farmers also use agro-landscapes that include not only the main crops, but also plantings of trees, shrubs, and grasses. This not only promotes biodiversity, but also helps to retain moisture, reduces the risk of erosion, and maintains the ecological balance on the farm.

Innovation and research

Organic agriculture is actively implementing innovative approaches, particularly in the field of agronomy and biology. For example, the development of new plant varieties that are highly resistant to drought and other weather events is an important area of research. Farmers are also actively implementing new methods of water management, using renewable energy sources and efficient irrigation systems.

Support networks and cooperation

An important aspect of organic farms’ adaptation to climate change is interaction with other farmers, research institutions and organizations. Exchange of experience and cooperation allow for faster adaptation to new conditions by applying proven strategies and technologies.

Adapting organic farms to climate change is not a one-time process. It is an ongoing challenge that requires innovation, flexibility, and the ability to change. However, organic agriculture has already shown its ability to adapt to new conditions, thanks to its sustainable practices that contribute not only to environmental protection but also to long-term food security.

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One of the main aspects of sustainable development supported by distributors is the reduction of CO₂ emissions. Optimizing transportation routes, using electric vehicles, and engaging local manufacturers help to reduce the carbon footprint. In addition, efficient inventory management and redistribution of goods minimize food waste, which is an important step in the fight against global pollution.

Organic distributors also play an important role in supporting sustainable production by working only with certified suppliers. This ensures that the products are grown without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers and genetically modified organisms. The introduction of traceability technologies, such as QR codes and blockchain, allows customers to learn about the origin of products, which increases trust in the organic sector.

Another important aspect is the reduction of plastic pollution. Many distributors are introducing eco-friendly packaging using biodegradable materials or recycled plastic. Such initiatives help reduce waste and support the circular economy.

In addition to environmental aspects, distributors contribute to social development by working with small farmers and paying them fairly. This not only helps to preserve traditional agriculture, but also provides a stable income for local communities.

Overall, distributors play an important role in ensuring the sustainability of the organic industry by promoting environmental responsibility, social support, and economic development. Their activities help to create a transparent and environmentally conscious organic supply chain that meets the current challenges of sustainable development.

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Benefits of organic farming for small farmers

Higher prices for products

One of the biggest advantages of organic farming is the ability to sell products at higher prices. Consumers are willing to pay more for organic products because they are considered healthier and more environmentally friendly. This gives small farmers the opportunity to make a higher profit from a limited area.

Lower costs for chemicals

Organic farming does not use synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. This reduces chemical costs, which is a significant advantage for small farmers with limited resources. The use of natural methods of land treatment, such as composting and crop rotation, reduces dependence on expensive chemicals.

Improved soil quality

Organic farming preserves soil fertility through the use of natural fertilization and tillage methods. This allows farmers to maintain healthy soils, which in the long run increases yields and plant resistance to disease.

Resistance to extreme conditions

Organic farming is often based on principles that contribute to climate change resilience. High levels of biodiversity and soil water retention help farmers to cope with droughts and other extreme weather conditions.

Promoting ecological balance

Organic farming contributes to the preservation of biodiversity, reduces soil erosion, and minimizes environmental pollution. For small farmers, this can be an important aspect of their business if they want to work in harmony with nature.

Challenges of organic farming for small farmers

Higher initial costs

Switching to organic farming can be costly for small farmers, as it requires investments in certification, new tillage methods, and organic production equipment. These costs can be a heavy burden for farmers with limited financial resources.

Low yields in the initial stages

When switching to organic farming, farmers may face the fact that yields in the first years will be lower than when using chemical inputs. This can be a challenge for small farmers, especially if they find it difficult to secure a sustainable income while transitioning to organic methods.

Problems with markets

Despite the high prices, the organic market can be competitive and difficult for small farmers, especially if they do not have access to large retail chains or cannot establish direct sales channels. Sometimes small farmers have to fight for a place on the market with large producers.

The need for specialized knowledge and experience

Organic farming requires in-depth knowledge of agronomy, ecology, and biology. Small farmers need to be prepared to continuously learn and develop new skills in order to effectively manage an organic farm. This can be challenging for those who do not have sufficient resources to obtain such education.

Risk of diseases and pests

Without chemical pesticides, organic farmers may face an increased risk of disease and pest infestation. The use of natural control methods may be less effective at some stages, which can lead to crop losses.

Conclusion

Organic farming can be a profitable option for small farmers seeking to secure a stable income while maintaining ecological balance and soil health. However, a successful transition to organic production requires effort, investment, and specialized knowledge. The challenges faced by farmers can be overcome with good management, innovation, and support from organizations and government programs that promote sustainable agriculture.

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Organic food: find the differences

The first difference that catches the eye is the price. The question immediately arises – why does the same product, at first glance, cost more if it is labeled “organic”? How is flour for 5 dollars different from flour for 20 dollars? Some people will shrug their shoulders and just choose the cheaper one. But we’ll find out what the difference is.

Organic farming

First of all, organic products are those that are not grown using GMOs, synthetic pesticides and growth regulators, which are the most dangerous to health.

For example, flour labeled “organic” will be produced from grain grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers that accelerate growth and in a place where there are no plants with harmful emissions in the vicinity.

It should be noted that “organic food” is not a modern invention. All the components of the product mature naturally, thanks to the sun, water and care in environmentally friendly conditions. And only organic biofertilizers and biopreparations are used to fertilize the soil and protect plants from diseases and pests. The same organic farming was practiced by our ancestors, but because of the pursuit of the number of crops had to resort to various tricks, which are not always well reflected in the quality of the product. The essence of organic farming, unlike mass farming, is the complete refusal to use chemicals and other additives that can harm health, as well as the soil. As a result, farmers get an ecologically clean crop.

Healthier and tastier

Black bread

And what does it mean to have a product grown under organic conditions? And by the fact that this product, first of all, is healthier, because it does not contain pesticides, nitrates and other harmful things that our body does not need. Of course, the result of the impact here is very delayed – all this affects our body gradually, until somewhere by the age of 50 years do not start problems with blood pressure, blood vessels and so on. True, we write it all off to age, but our health is influenced by many factors. And what we eat is not the last of these factors! If not the first.

The taste of organic products is much brighter and tastier, which is not surprising, because they grow in natural conditions.

Conservation of natural resources

Organic farming allows you to preserve the soil used.

After all, chemical treatment sooner or later exhausts the land and it becomes simply unsuitable for crops. As a result, hectares of land stand empty and the ecosystem is disturbed. Since organic farming prohibits the use of herbicides and other chemicals to kill weeds and pests, much more resources are required to care for the soil. This also accounts for the higher price of organic produce.

Organic production

Certifying organizations not only monitor the quality of farming, the entire production cycle is monitored. In organic products you will not find flavor and appearance enhancers, as well as additional additives that seem to facilitate the process of preparation, but in fact then affect our health.

Ecolabels for organic products

Ecolabels

In the advantages of organic products we have understood, now we will learn how to distinguish a really high-quality product from the unsubstantiated label “organic”, behind which unscrupulous manufacturers can hide ordinary mass-produced products.

There are certificates of organic products recognized worldwide. The presence of such signs on the package guarantees that the product is really grown according to all the rules, without the use of pesticides, GMOs, harmful chemical fertilizers.

One of such signs is “Euro-leaf” (Euro-leaf) – a sign of the European system of certification of organic products. This mark is mandatory for all organic products sold in the European Union.

Some countries have their own national certification systems. One such country is Germany. The “Bio-Siegel” mark (Bio-Siegel) imposes more requirements to the quality of products than the organic marks of the European Union certificates, that is why German residents buy eco-products with the “Bio-Siegel” mark more willingly.

Sweden (“KRAV”), Switzerland (“The BIO Suisse Bud”, “The BIO-Bud”), France (“AB”), England (“Soil Association”) and America (“USDA organic”) also have their own certification systems.

If you see one of the certification marks on the packaging, you can be sure of the quality of the product and that the label “organic” is not an advertising ploy!

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International Federation of the Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM – Organics International)

IFOAM is a global organization that brings together organic movement participants from all over the world. It develops basic standards for organic production, promotes knowledge exchange and supports policies aimed at developing organic agriculture.

Organic Trade Association (OTA)

OTA represents the interests of the organic industry in North America. It engages in advocacy, market research, and educational programs to support the development of the organic market and ensure transparency for consumers.

European Organic Agriculture Group (IFOAM EU Group)

This organization represents the interests of the organic sector in Europe. It works to implement policies that support organic production and provides a platform for the exchange of experience between European countries.

Organic Ukraine

All-Ukrainian public union that unites producers, processors, distributors and other participants of the organic market of Ukraine. The organization promotes the development of organic production in the country, conducts educational events and supports the certification of organic products.

Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA)

COTA promotes organic products in Canada, supports standardization and certification, and conducts market research to support its members.

These associations play an important role in shaping policies, setting standards and supporting organic market participants, contributing to its sustainable development and growth on a global scale.

The post Top 5 Associations Shaping the Future of the Organic Market appeared first on OrganicLinksAll.

Certification increases the trust of customers and partners in the distributor. Shops, restaurants, and supermarkets that work with certified distributors are confident in the high quality of their products, which helps to strengthen business relationships. For international supplies, certification is a prerequisite for entering new markets, as each country has its own requirements for organic products.

Certification also helps distributors streamline internal processes and standardize the production cycle. Compliance with certification standards helps to improve logistics, quality control, and reduce the risk of product contamination. Organic standards often require strict control over the transportation, storage and packaging of goods, which increases their competitiveness in the market.

In addition, certification has a positive impact on the environment, as it encourages the use of sustainable production methods, reduces the use of chemicals, and supports the conservation of natural resources. Distributors working with certified organic products contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

Obtaining certification requires financial and time costs, but these investments quickly pay off by expanding the market and enhancing the company’s reputation. Distributors seeking long-term development and compliance with international standards see certification as an important tool for strengthening their position in the organic industry.

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Why are organic products so important and useful for your baby?

Organic foods, unlike conventional foods, cannot contain GMOs because they are grown without the use of chemicals (pesticides and agrochemicals), and therefore they are safe. They contain the full range of vitamins provided by nature. They grow on clean land and ripen exactly as long as nature provides, contain more pulp and less water, are better stored, and retain nutrients longer. In addition, the natural ripening time of fruits gives them a rich aroma and flavor.

How to distinguish organic products on the store shelf?

Organic products can already be bought not only in specialized stores, but also in regular supermarkets. The first and most important source of information is the product packaging, the layout of which is approved by the certification body during the certification process.

The most important thing to know is that the labels that say “environmentally friendly product”, “natural” or “100% natural product”, “bio”, “traditional”, “homemade”, “organic”, etc. do not guarantee the safety of this product and do not confirm its organic nature!

Certified organic food can be recognized by a special label on it. Labeling helps you find the right product and not get confused when studying its composition. It is also a guarantee of quality.

Organic products in the world

Like every epoch-making novelty, the organic movement has gone through all the classic phases of development: first it was ridiculed, then persecuted, and finally its benefits are becoming apparent around the world. Today, 37 million hectares of agricultural land in the world are considered organic: if we take all the agricultural land of our planet as 100%, then 0.9% will be occupied by organic production. Approximately one third of the world’s organic farming area and more than 80% of producers are located in developing and emerging markets. Switzerland (153 euros), Denmark (142 euros) and Luxembourg (127 euros) have the highest per capita consumption of organic products per year.

The organic market is at the initial stage of development… However, every year the number of products that can be called organic is rapidly increasing. And already the number of organic food products of Ukrainian origin that can be found on the Ukrainian market is about 150. Among them are organic vegetables, fruits, berries, honey, juices, various cereals, flour, sugar, dairy and meat products.

Due to the demand for organic cereals and their necessity for proper and healthy nutrition, the range of such products is expanding every year and already includes eight items: buckwheat, barley, wheat, corn, pearl barley, semolina, millet and split peas.

The problem of “clean” food is especially relevant in children’s age, as it is in early childhood that the foundations for good health in the future are laid. Eating “organically” means not only increased saturation of the body with nutrients from food, but also a reduction in the level of intake of pesticides, nitrates, food additives and genetically modified substances from intensive farming products.

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One of these projects is the Organic Initiative, which in 2021 created a working group to introduce organic products in public schools and kindergartens. The goal of this group is to introduce organic food in educational institutions, which includes conducting research, legal audit of legislation, and developing a roadmap for the implementation of this initiative.

The Agricultural Advisory Service implements projects aimed at providing technical assistance to farmers in establishing agricultural service cooperatives. This allows farmers to jointly purchase quality inputs, negotiate with banks for favorable lending, organize the sharing of equipment, and receive expert advice.

In 2021, the European Union adopted an Action Plan for the Development of Organic Production aimed at supporting the production and consumption of organic products. This plan includes measures to raise consumer awareness, stimulate demand for organic products, and support farmers in the transition to organic farming methods.

Such projects and initiatives play an important role in supporting organic farmers, contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture and providing consumers with high-quality organic products.

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Market research and selection of target regions

Before expanding, it is important to analyze the market, assess the demand for organic products and identify promising regions. The following should be taken into account:

• Consumers’ income level;
• Popularity of the organic lifestyle;
• Competition and availability of local producers.

Example: Entering the market of megacities or environmentally conscious regions where consumption of organic products is growing.

Expanding the partner network

Collaboration with new suppliers, retailers, restaurants and catering establishments will help you grow your presence faster.

Key steps:

• Identify potential partners (supermarkets, farmers’ markets, online stores);
• Offer favorable terms of cooperation;
• Establish efficient logistics for fast delivery of products.

Use of e-commerce and digital tools

Online sales play an important role in the development of the organic industry. Companies can expand distribution through:

• Own online store;
• Online retail platforms (Amazon, Thrive Market, iHerb);
• Affiliate programs with popular marketplaces.

Example: Distributor Organic Valley actively uses online channels for direct sales to consumers.

Optimize logistics and reduce costs

Efficient logistics ensures fast delivery and minimization of product losses.

Optimization methods:

• Use of environmentally friendly transport (electric trucks, local warehouses);
• Establishment of regional logistics centers;
• Implementation of real-time cargo tracking technologies.

Example: KeHE Distributors uses smart logistics to optimize the routing of deliveries.

Participation in exhibitions and marketing campaigns

Promoting the brand and attracting new customers is possible through active marketing:

• Participation in exhibitions of organic products (Natural Products Expo, Organic Trade Show);
• Launching advertising campaigns in social networks;
• Cooperation with bloggers and influencers.

Example: UNFI actively promotes its products through specialized events and digital marketing.

Implementation of traceability technologies

Consumers want to know the origin of products. The use of blockchain technologies and QR codes allows customers to check information about the manufacturer, storage and transportation conditions.

Example: Whole Foods Market uses a traceability system to increase consumer confidence.

Conclusion

Expanding the distribution network in the organic industry requires a comprehensive approach: market analytics, partnerships, efficient logistics, and innovation. Companies that implement modern technologies and use digital strategies have significant advantages in the competition.

The post Strategies for Expanding the Distribution Network in the Organic Industry appeared first on OrganicLinksAll.