Keeping a clear view in the organic jungle

From February 12-15, 2020, the world's leading trade fair for organic food, Biofach in Nürnberg, will be open again. With twelve exhibition halls, this time two more than last year, the organizers expect 3,500 exhibitors from some 100 countries. Michaela Neubauer, Manager Sales Germany at a. hartrodt in Hamburg, observes a "raging demand for organic products". According to the Federal Environment Agency, both sales and market share of organic food have approximately doubled within ten years. But: "Many manufacturers are small and medium-sized enterprises reaching their capacity limits," says Neubauer. Often the suppliers are also overstrained with the export of their goods.

Organic certificate inspected by customs

"The organic certificate must be cleared at customs", explains Neubauer, who buys in organic supermarkets herself. Organic food produced in accordance with EU legislation on organic farming is labelled with the legally required EU organic logo – the Euro leaf. In Germany, the hexagonal organic seal is also permitted.

China – an important organic market

"When exporting, the import guidelines must always be clarified in advance so that the goods do not stop at customs," emphasizes Neubauer. This is because additional documentation can be requested in the importing country. Due to the strong consumer protection, there are very individual requirements. As examples, Neubauer mentions certificates describing the manufacturing processes or analysis certificates on ingredients. Experts at a. hartrodt who are directly on site in important organic markets such as China know all about this. From the European North Range ports, a. hartrodt regularly organizes its own consolidated containers, in which organic food can also be consolidated. "This is particularly interesting for smaller organic producers," says Neubauer. For organic chocolate, for example, she recommends "refrigerated consolidated containers that go out to Hong Kong and Singapore every month".

Neubauer and other experts from a. hartrodt make appointments for consultations at the Biofach.