Blockchain Technology in the Service of Food Safety

In the food industry, blockchain technology is gaining increasing importance as a tool for ensuring transparency, safety, and trust throughout the entire food supply chain. Blockchain is a distributed data ledger in which every piece of information—from the moment a raw material is harvested to the delivery of the final product to the store—is recorded in an immutable and verifiable way, accessible to all involved parties. Every stage, such as transport, processing, or packaging, is logged in the system, making it possible to instantly trace the origin of a product and respond quickly in the event of any threats, such as food contamination or labeling errors.

Regulatory Compliance and Consumer Protection

In the European Union, strict regulations apply to food traceability. According to the “farm to fork” principle, every company involved in the supply chain is required to document the origin of its products and share this information at every stage of production, processing, and distribution. Traditionally, this has been done through paper documents or fragmented IT systems, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Blockchain significantly simplifies this process. Its architecture ensures data consistency, transparency, and resistance to manipulation, while automating the reporting required by law. For producers, this means a reduced risk of errors; for consumers, it guarantees that information about food origins is authentic.

Rapid Response and Practical Benefits

One of the most important applications of blockchain in the food industry is rapid response to safety incidents. In traditional systems, identifying the source of contamination can take days or even weeks. With blockchain, the time needed to trace a product’s origin has been reduced to just a few seconds. This technology is also a powerful tool in combating food fraud. Entries in the blockchain are permanent and publicly accessible, making any later modification impossible.

A New Standard of Trust

As consumers increasingly demand transparency and ethical practices in food production, blockchain is becoming the technological foundation of a new standard of trust. For companies, it is not only a way to meet regulatory requirements but also a means of building reputation and customer loyalty. It is yet another compelling reason to choose organic food from the European Union—because where technology meets responsibility, both the consumer and the planet benefit.

UAE Delegation Explores European Organic Food During Study Tour to Poland

From 22 to 26 September 2025, a 14-member delegation from the United Arab Emirates – including business leaders, journalists, and influencers – took part in a study tour to Poland, gaining first-hand insights into Europe’s thriving organic food sector. Organized by the National Association of Processors and Producers of Organic Products “Polska Ekologia” in Poland, the program formed part of the EU-funded campaign “EU Organic Food – Good Choice,” designed to showcase the quality and diversity of European organic products to consumers and businesses in the UAE.

The itinerary also featured a visit to POLAGRA in Poznań – one of Central and Eastern Europe’s leading trade fairs for the food and HoReCa sectors, showcasing innovations in food and beverages, solutions for gastronomy, and cutting-edge retail technologies. Business representatives engaged in B2B meetings with European producers, while influencers and media representatives joined a discussion panel to share their impressions of the Polish organic food scene with a wider audience.

Beyond the conference halls, the group visited an organic apple orchard and traveled to Lublin to experience the region’s organic food offer and culinary traditions, reinforcing the diversity and authenticity of Europe’s organic production.

“Poland and other EU countries have enormous potential in organic food production. This visit not only gave me a better understanding of EU quality schemes and the high standards of organic production, but also allowed me to experience the hospitality and culinary richness of Europe,” said one participant.

The tour created valuable business connections and opened new avenues for cooperation between European producers and partners in the UAE.

Ecological seed and animal databases

Modern organic farming is not only about cultivation free of chemicals and animal welfare – it is also about modern technological solutions that support daily work of the farmers. One of the most important tools in this regard are the computer databases of organic breeding material maintained by each Member State of the European Union.

These specialised databases play a key role in the development of organic farming. They contain up-to-date information on the availability of organic seeds, seedlings, as well as breeding animals for reproduction, which meet the organic production standards of the EU.

Farmers can check the following information in the databases:

Thanks to this tool:

These databases are also a form of support for organic farms – they increase their visibility, allow them to promote their products and facilitate business contacts domestically and across the European Union. It is also important that access to the databases is public and organised in a user-friendly way – farmers, agricultural advisers and inspection bodies can use the databases freely, which significantly facilitates daily work in the organic sector. Modern technology supports sustainable agriculture – and digital databases are a prime example of this.

Sustainable agriculture - a future that starts today

In the times of climate change, depletion of natural resources and the growing need to protect the environment, sustainable agricultural systems become not just an alternative, but a necessity. It is this approach to food production that is the future of agriculture – a responsible, informed and long-term option. What exactly is sustainable agriculture?

It is a production system which:

One of the best examples of this approach is organic farming in the European Union. It’s not a trend – it’s a well planned production system based on specific rules and strict regulations. In practice, this means i.e.:

abandoning synthetic fertilisers and pesticides in favour of natural plant protection methods,
use of crop rotation and composting, which improve soil quality and promote soil fertility,
keeping animals in conditions adapted to their natural needs, with access to pastures and adequate space,
and measures to protect biodiversity, e.g. by creating buffer zones, wooded areas or flower meadows.

Thanks to these efforts, organic farming offers more than just food – it means natural, high-quality products produced in a way friendly to the planet. By choosing these products, you not only support your health, but also farmers who work with respect for nature. This is the agriculture of the future – available already today.

How can you tell if a product is really organic?

In the era of increasing popularity of organic products, many consumers are asking themselves: how can we be sure that a product really meets the organic standards? In the case of products from the European Union, the answer is simple – just look for the distinctive green leaf-shaped logo formed by white stars. This is the so-called ‘Euro-leaf’,the official environmental logo of the EU.

This logo is not just a symbol – it is a guarantee that the product has been produced in accordance with the strict organic farming regulations of the European Union.

In order for a product to be labelled with this designation:

All this means that products with the Euro-leaf logo offer the consumer full transparency and trust – you know exactly what you place on your table. In the UAE, you also have access to many organic products from the European Union. By choosing products labelled with the Euro-Leaf, you choose quality, responsibility and environmental care. Look for the green leaf and you can be sure that you are buying a truly organic product.

Freeze-dried food - natural flavour and exceptional lightness

Freeze drying is an advanced method of drying food by removing water from the product through freezing and sublimation under vacuum. Once most of the water has been removed, the product is subjected to further drying to remove any residual moisture. Thanks to this process, freeze-dried food retains a taste very close to fresh products, natural flavour, intense colour and most of the valuable nutritional values.

Freeze-dried products, such as fruit, vegetables, meat or ready meals, have a characteristic light, crunchy and porous texture. This unique texture makes the snacks crisp and easy to dissolve in the mouth, providing a pleasant taste experience.

Unlike traditional drying methods, freeze-drying takes place at low temperatures, which minimises the loss of vitamins, minerals and enzymes. This makes freeze-dried products not only tasty, but also highly nutritious. Freeze-drying also reduces the volume and weight of the products, making them easier to transport and store.

Freeze-drying evaporates almost 100% of water, significantly extending the shelf life of the products – they can be stored for up to several years without loss of quality, while maintaining a lightweight form, ideal for long trips, travel or as a crunchy snack at work. Water can also be added to bring them back to their original texture and taste. Thanks to freeze-drying, fruit and vegetables can be consumed at any time of the year without worrying about freshness.

Organic meat in the EU – what is worth knowing?

Organic meat production in Europe is subject to strict European Union regulations aimed at protecting the environment, animal welfare and consumer health. But while “eco” certification is often simply associated with a lack of chemicals and better product quality, there is more to that label – a whole philosophy of farming and production, based on respect for nature. What does it mean for meat to be organic? Organic meat comes from animals reared as close to natural conditions as possible. This means, among other things:

no GMO feeds or chemical additives,
prohibition on prophylactic antibiotics and growth hormones,
access to an enclosure and natural light,
slower, more natural growth of animals,
maintaining the principles of well-being – less stress, more freedom.

Different types of organic meat in Europe

Organic beef – cattle grazed on natural pastures, fed with organic feed. The meat is darker, firmer and more flavoursome.
Organic pork – pigs live in small groups and eat organic food. Their meat is juicier and more tender than that from mass production.
Organic poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese) – reared in a free-range system, with natural access to daylight and space for exercise.
Organic mutton and lamb – sheep graze on natural pastures, often mountainous, where they have access to natural foods such as grass, herbs and other plants, and are fed locally grown fodder during the winter.

Tastings in Dubai supermarkets

In December 2024, we went to Lulu Hypermarkets in Dubai to offer shoppers free tastings of European organic food as part of what is a European Union co-funded campaign ‘EU Organic Food – Good Choice’. Owned by LuLu Group International, LuLu Hypermarket is an international retail chain that has always set trends for other retailers in the region. Today, with more than 260 stores that are highly regarded by discerning consumers across the Gulf, LuLu is the synonym for top-quality shopping experience.

Our promotional campaign gave us a chance to reach out to customers not only to let them taste a wide choice of EU-organic labelled products such as cold cuts, honeys, dairy, cereals, fruit and vegetables, but also to talk to them about their food and drink expectations and preferences. Some organic product specialists came along to share their insightful opinions on the quality and origins of items presented, while they welcomed consumers’ feedback on the flavours and market needs. Launched in 10 supermarkets, the initiative lasted for 10 days and attracted highly favourable comments. We are all set to carry on with this promotional marketing campaign for the third year running to make sure more and more shoppers can find out about the benefits of buying the European organic food.

Second year of the campaign "Organic food from the EU - A good choice"

The second year of the information and promotion campaign “Organic food from the EU – A good choice”, co-financed by the European Union, was a time of intensive activities that raised the profile of European organic food in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Between March 2024 and February 2025, the campaign focused on direct contact with distributors, importers and consumers, promoting European products as an epitome of high quality and a sustainable production system.

Presence at key industry events

One of the highlights of the campaign was our participation in two prestigious industry fair events in the UAE: Middle EastOrganic & Natural Products Expo in Dubai (18-20 November 2024) and Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE) (26-28 November 2024). The Campaign stand was very popular with food industry representatives and numerous B2B meetings enabled European producers to establish new business contacts.

Activities during the fair culminated in a press event in Dubai that brought together media representatives and local influencers. Tasting events involving organic European products and presentations on the production process of organic food in the EU, its quality and nutritional values helped to build even greater consumer awareness and strengthen the image of European food as safe and wholesome.

UAE Delegation Explores the Flavors of European Organic Food in Poland

A delegation from the United Arab Emirates, comprising food distributors, importers, influencers, and journalists, visited Rzeszów and its surroundings from December 11-15, 2024. This visit was part of the promotional campaign “EU Organic Food – Good Choice,” co-funded by the European Union. During the trip, the delegation explored local organic producers of honey, meat, apples, mushrooms, and forest fruits, gaining insights into the high standards of organic production and EU certification processes. The visit also offered the opportunity to savor traditional Polish dishes prepared for the Christmas season, immersing the guests in the unique festive atmosphere.

A highlight of the agenda was the EKOGALA International Fair for Organic and High-Quality Food, held on December 14 in Jasionka near Rzeszów. The delegation was welcomed by the Marshal of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, Władysław Ortyl, who showcased the region’s economic potential and tourist attractions.

At EKOGALA, the delegation attended the seminar “ EU Organic Food – Good Choice,” where notable speakers, including Wawrzyniec Maziejuk, Vice-President of the “Polska Ekologia” Association, and Prof. Bartosz Sołowiej from the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, discussed topics such as the future of organic farming, the significance of EU quality systems, and the role of digitization in food production.

Deepti Chandak, a popular UAE influencer and one of the participants, shared her thoughts on the visit: “I was deeply impressed by the quality of European organic products and the warm hospitality we experienced in Poland. The festive atmosphere, traditional dishes, and the valuable knowledge shared by producers made this an unforgettable experience.”

The visit concluded with a series of B2B meetings between the UAE delegation and European organic food producers, paving the way for meaningful business connections and potential collaborations.

European organic food in Abu Dhabi

The information and promotion campaign ‘Organic Food from the EU – A Good Choice’, co-financed by the European Union, was recognised at the prestigious food fair in the United Arab Emirates – Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE), which took place from 26-28 November 2024. Each year, the fair brings together participants from all over the world, including manufacturers, distributors, investors and representatives from the food, agriculture and retail industries. ADIFE provides a platform for international business contacts and is also a place where companies can promote their brands and products to the rapidly growing Middle East market.

The event also aims to promote sustainability, innovation in food production and education about the benefits of consuming healthy and natural products. European organic food stood out at the fair for its diversity and high quality. The wide range of products on offer – from cereals, fruit and vegetables to honey, dairy and meat products – attracted a large number of the fair’s visitors. The result was dozens of business meetings that served to build relationships and showcase the potential of European organic products in the booming UAE organic food market.

‘Our presence at the fair in UAE is a prelude to establishing partnerships in the Middle East, which is crucial for the development of European organic food exports’, emphasised representatives of the companies present at the project’s stand during the Abu Dhabi fair

Success for EU organic food producers

On 18-20 November 2024, Dubai became the centre of the global organic market for the 22nd time at the 22nd edition of the Middle East Organic and Natural Products Expo. Food producers also took part in this prestigious event, showcasing a wide range of products, including fruit, vegetables, honey, meat and dairy products. The speech was part of the EU co-financed campaign “EU Organic Food – Good Choice”, aimed at promoting high quality organic food from Europe.

Exhibitors focused visitors’ attention not only on the taste and nutritional value of their products, but also on sustainable production. As a result, they have gained recognition among local importers and distributors, for whom high quality and ecology are becoming key criteria in the selection of business partners.

One of the events surrounding the fair was a press briefing at The Barnyard restaurant in Dubai. It was attended by representatives from the food sector, local journalists and influencers from the United Arab Emirates.

During the event, Jolanta Lyska, General Director of the Polish Association of Processors and Producers of Organic Products “Polska Ekologia”, presented the assumptions of the programme to promote European organic food on the Middle East market. She also hinted at future activities, including organising a study tour to Europe and participating in Restaurant Week UAE 2025, which is expected to help popularise organic products in the country’s gastronomy.

Study Tour of UAE Food Distributors, Journalists and Influencers to Poland

From September 24 to 28, 2024, a delegation of food distributors, importers, influencers, and journalists from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited Poland. The delegation was invited by the National Association of Processors and Producers of Organic Products “Polska Ekologia” as part of the promotional and informational campaign “EU Organic Food – Good Choice,” co-financed by the European Union and targeted at the UAE market. The delegation attended one of the most significant events for the food and HoReCa sectors in Poland – the POLAGRA Fair in Poznań. At the fair, the guests visited the stand of the Polish Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the National Support Center for Agriculture (KOWR), as well as selected stands of European food companies.

One of the main highlights of the tour in Poznań was a seminar dedicated to organic farming in the European Union. Experts gave presentations on topics such as organic food processing and production (“Polska Ekologia”), the status and prospects of organic farming (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development), accreditation in organic farming (Polish Centre for Accreditation), and the transformation of food systems (IDFS Sp. z o.o.). After the presentations, a panel discussion took place, followed by a series of B2B meetings with European organic food producers. The delegation members also had the opportunity to visit facilities producing organic food, including producers of freeze-dried organic food and mills specializing in organic flour production. They were introduced to the high standards and principles of sustainable production, certification processes, and the quality of organic products from the EU. Due to the high interest in the study tour and the limited number of spots, another edition has been scheduled for December. Media and companies interested are invited to contact us for further details.

Organic beef and poultry meat from the EU

European organic farms rear animals that enjoy freedom, natural food and fresh air. These comfortable growing conditions translate into high quality meat. Tasty variety on the plate is provided by a wide range of European poultry meat, including chicken, turkey, goose and duck. Chicken meat is the most popular, with its light colour, fine texture and thin, smooth skin. Poultry meat is high in protein with a relatively low fat content. It also stands out for its speed and ease of cooking, and for combining perfectly with all kinds of flavours and cuisines. This makes it ideal for a variety of dishes – from light salads to exquisite dinner dishes.

Organic beef is a unique type of meat, characterised by its tenderness and dark red colour with white strings of fat. It is one of the meats with the highest nutritional value. It contains a medium amount of fat and a high content of easily digestible protein, as well as vitamins B12, B1 and B6, phosphorus, iron and zinc. This makes it an ideal ingredient for a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients. Above all, meat from animals with constant access to natural feed, a large pasture and fresh air is more flavoursome. Organic meat has a rich flavour and aroma, so it does not need additives to improve its taste. It does not contain artificial, chemical substances to prolong freshness, so harmful preservatives are avoided.
At the end of summer, go for recipes that highlight the flavours of organic beef and poultry, while making use of seasonal fruit and vegetables. Here are some suggestions

grilled chicken breast with tomato and basil salad,
BBQ-style beef with grilled courgettes, peppers and aubergines,
roast turkey with summer vegetables - carrots, beetroot and potatoes,
salad with duck and seasonal fruit (raspberries, blackberries), nuts and goat's cheese.

Summer harvest

Summer is a busy harvest time, when farmers all over Europe are harvesting organic crops. Cereals grown in harmony with nature not only contribute to the environment, but also provide us with tasty, wholesome products that form a basis of our daily diet. In organic cereal farming, farmers use natural pest control methods and organic fertilisers. They care about maintaining biodiversity, leaving spaces for wild plants and insects that support the health of the ecosystem. As a result, the cereals grow in harmony with nature, without the use of chemical pesticides and artificial fertilisers, which translates into the quality and purity of the final product. Summer is the time when farmers harvest ripe cereals from the fields. It is the culmination of a whole year’s work in the fields, when golden fields of wheat, rye, barley, oats and other cereals are turned into raw material for the production of a variety of cereal products. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and proper care, organic cereals acquire an exceptional quality, rich in nutrients and full of natural flavour. They are a source of fibre, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients.

There is a wide range of organic cereal products from the EU, with something to suit everyone’s taste:

baked from organic flour, the bread - its natural taste and aroma are incomparable to conventional products;
organic pasta, available in many shapes and forms, is the perfect addition to summer dishes, salads and soups;
a nutritious breakfast cereal, made with organic cereals, is the perfect choice for an energetic start to the day;
organic flour, both wheat and gluten-free, is the basis of many home baked goods, from bread to cakes;
organic groats, such as millet, buckwheat or barley groats, make an excellent addition to dinner dishes and salads. They are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, and easy to prepare;
gluten-free flours, pasta, bread, snacks and desserts - made from a variety of grains such as maize, rice or buckwheat.

Summer is the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen with organic cereal products. Sourdough bread made from organic flour, fresh wholemeal pasta salads or homemade oatmeal granolas are just a few of the options. Organic cereal products are extremely tasty, making every meal a real treat.

Organic fruit and vegetables from the EU on your table

European organic fruit and vegetables are gaining increasing recognition worldwide for their exceptional quality, rich aromas and intense flavours. Apples, pears, raspberries, strawberries, rosehips, tomatoes, carrots, courgettes and broccoli are just some of the delicacies winning the hearts of consumers.

Organic fruit and vegetables are distinguished by their distinct aroma and flavour and their retention of natural colour. The higher content of natural sugars makes organic fruit more aromatic and sweeter, making it an ideal addition to summer desserts, salads and juices.

The production of organic fruit and vegetables in the EU is based on the principles of sustainable agriculture. Farmers use natural methods of fertilisation and plant protection, eliminating the need for chemical pesticides and artificial fertilisers. This keeps the soil fertile and healthy and the fruit and vegetables free of harmful chemicals. This approach also favours the preservation of biodiversity and the protection of local ecosystems.

How to use these treasures of summer in the kitchen? It’s simple! Fresh, organic vegetables such as tomatoes, courgettes, carrots and broccoli are perfect for summer salads. Add some olive oil, herbs and cheese to create a delicious, healthy dish. Fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, apples and pears are great for making refreshing smoothies and juices. Simply blend them with yoghurt, milk or water to enjoy a natural summer drink. Summer is also the time for barbecues. Courgettes, broccoli and also tomatoes are perfect for roasting on the grill. Add a little olive oil, salt and your favourite spices to enhance their natural flavour.

Enjoy!

Organic EU dairy ideal for summer

On organic farms in the EU, cows, goats and chickens have access to fresh, green pastures. As a result, their diet is rich in a variety of grasses and herbs, which directly affects the taste and quality of the milk and eggs. In summer, when the pastures are in full bloom, the milk takes on a particularly rich, full-bodied flavour, and cheeses, yoghurts and other dairy products become even more delicious. These products bring not only exceptional taste to the kitchen, but also a harmonious balance with nature. The range of organic dairy products from the EU includes a wide variety of products to satisfy every dairy lover:

Organic milk, whether cow or goat, is characterised by its rich taste and natural composition. It is perfect for drinking cold on hot summer days or as a base for cocktails and smoothies.
Natural yoghurts, both classic and fruity, are ideal for light summer breakfasts and desserts. With their creamy texture and fresh taste, they make an excellent addition to fruit and muesli.

A wide range of organic cheeses, from soft, fresh cheeses to mature, flavour-intensive cheeses, make the perfect accompaniment to summer salads and sandwiches.
Organic butter and cream are distinguished by their exceptional creaminess and full flavour. They are ideal for baked goods, sauces and desserts.
Organic free-range eggs are prized for their taste and quality. They make an excellent ingredient in summer dishes, from omelettes to salads and desserts.

There is also no shortage of lactose-free alternatives in the summer range of organic dairy products from the EU. This is an excellent option for people who avoid lactose, but want to enjoy the taste and quality of milk and dairy products. Summer lactose-free yoghurts, cheeses and desserts are light and refreshing, perfect for warm days. The summer variety of organic dairy products from the EU will satisfy every gourmet. Fresh cheeses, natural and fruit yoghurts, milk and eggs from organic farms are the perfect accompaniment to summer dishes. Salads with fresh cheeses, refreshing milkshakes or light yoghurt desserts are just some of the suggestions that can be prepared using the wealth of summer dairy.

Honeys from the EU - discover the diversity of flavors

Late spring and summer is when EU honey reaches its full flavor and nutritional value. It is now that beekeepers have their hands full, as blooming meadows, orchards and fields provide bees with unlimited sources of nectar. Honey is the essence of the diversity of European flora, encapsulated in golden droplets. Here are some popular types of honey that are worth exploring:

Lime honey
It is one of the most prized types of honey in Europe. It comes from the nectar of linden flowers, which bloom in early summer. It is characterized by its light, golden color and distinct, sweet-herbal flavor. Lime honey is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
Acacia honey
It is extracted from the nectar of the flowers of the acacia robinia, which blooms in late spring. This honey is extremely light, almost transparent, and has a delicate, subtly sweet taste. Due to its high fructose content, acacia honey crystallizes very slowly, making it stay liquid for a long time. It is ideal for sweetening beverages and foods without altering their taste.

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The first year of the "EU ORGANIC FOOD – GOOD CHOICE" programme

The first year of the “EU ORGANIC FOOD – GOOD CHOICE” programme has concluded! Not only is the UAE initiative going very well, but it’s full of events! We’ve already held a press conference for journalists, influencers and industry representatives, where we presented, among other things, our philosophy of eating organic. We also participated in the ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL FOOD EXHIBITION and the MIDDLE EAST ORGANIC AND NATURAL PRODUCTS fair in Dubai, the UAE’s most influential organic produce fair.

Moreover, there are discussions with suppliers – our representatives have held more than 50 business meetings in the 12 months since the launch of the European Union’s organic promotion campaign. What can we expect next year? We’ll keep you updated!

Organic and natural foods from Poland at the Middle East Organic and Natural Products Expo in Dubai

The 21st edition of the Middle East Organic and Natural Products Expo was held in Dubai from December 12-14, 2023. The expo is the largest business event in the Middle East, which this time brought together more than 300 producers and suppliers of organic and natural products from 65 countries to showcase their products related to the themes of healthy living, ecology and sustainability.

This year’s edition was attended by more than 12,000 people from various industries, including Horeca, importers, distributors, grocery chains, organic stores and food bloggers.

The focus for 2023 was on five key categories: food and beverage, beauty and cosmetics, health and wellness, agriculture and environment, and sustainable lifestyles.

The three-day fair featured a number of events, including the Organic and Natural Conference, where industry experts discussed the latest trends, product certification, export and sales strategies. Presentations were accompanied by cooking demonstrations in the Organic Super Kitchen and makeovers in the Organic Beauty Corner, as well as side events – the Tea & Coffee Pavilion and the Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Conference and Expo.

During the fair, European organic products were promoted as part of the “EU Organic Food – Good Choice” campaign. Among the exhibitors were producers from Poland, who presented their products, such as fruits, vegetables, honey, meat and dairy products, distinguished by their high quality and attention to sustainability.

The Middle East Organic and Natural Products Expo is not only a three-day event, but also an online platform, Arabian Organics, which serves as a central portal for all those interested in organic and natural products. More than 35,000 users have already registered on it and use it throughout the year.

The organizers have already announced the next edition of the expo, which will be held on November 18-20, 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The Middle East Organic and Natural Products Expo is one of the most important business events in the region, focusing exclusively on organic and natural products. The fair is held under the auspices of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and has been bringing suppliers and buyers together for 21 years.

The consumption of organic food in the Middle East has already become an enduring trend. Dubai, located between Asia, Africa and Europe, is a gateway to the global market. In 2021, the market for packaged organic products in the Middle East and Africa region was worth $820 million. The market is growing by 7% per year and is expected to reach $1 billion by 2026.

Polish Organic Food at Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE).

The ADIFE international food fair took place in Abu Dhabi from November 27-30. During the event, Polish organic food producers presented their products as part of the project “Organic food from the EU – a good choice”, co-financed by European Union funds.

The ADIFE fair was an excellent opportunity to present a diverse group of organic food products from Poland. These are products grown and processed with care for the environment, respecting water resources, soil, biodiversity and the welfare of livestock. Their production does not use chemical protectants, artificial fertilizers, growth stimulants or genetic modification techniques.

Zoonotic products, including meat, milk and dairy, come from animals raised in natural conditions, fed with organic feed, without the use of antibiotics and growth hormones. Such a production method guarantees not only the highest quality, but also compliance with strict European Union standards for organic food production.
European organic fruits and vegetables are distinguished by their natural color, intense flavor and aroma, due to their higher content of natural sugars and lower water content.
Organic beef is rich in digestible protein and vitamins, and comes from animals raised in high welfare conditions. In the process of raising and producing organic poultry, among other things, the use of synthetic additives is prohibited, so the meat retains its natural flavor and aroma. Milk, dairy, eggs and honey from organic farms are sourced to the highest organic standards.
Organic grain cultivation, free of artificial fertilizers and pesticides, contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. Products such as flour, pasta, bread and breakfast cereals made from these grains are rich sources of nutrients.

“By choosing European organic food, consumers not only receive products that taste delicious, but just as importantly, they are assured that they are consuming safe foods. The European Union has set high standards for organic production. The EU certificates that the products we promote have are a guarantee of their highest quality – the quality that consumers in the United Arab Emirates expect,” says Pawel Krajmas, President of the All-Poland Association of Processors and Producers of Organic Products “Polska Ekologia.”

Organic food - it's worth it

Nowadays, more and more consumers are becoming aware of the impact of their choices on the environment and their own health. This awareness is leading to increased interest in organic products that carry the relevant quality labels. Offering the reassurance that food has been produced with respect for the environment and meets strict production standards, eco-products have become a common choice for those who aspire to a sustainable and responsible lifestyle. In this article, we will look at the advantages of eco-products as being controlled at every stage ‘from field to table’ and the certification process that underpins this guaranteed quality chain.

Interview with the President of POLSKA EKOLOGIA

An Interview with Paweł Krajmas, President of ‘POLSKA EKOLOGIA’ – the Association of Polish Organic Food Producers and Processors, executing the project ‘Organic Food from the EU – A Good Choice’. The campaign, which started in March 2023 in the United Arab Emirates, is expected to last three years.

What does the ‘POLSKA EKOLOGIA’ association entail?

‘POLSKA EKOLOGIA’, known officially as the Association of Polish Organic Food Producers and Processors, was established in 2006. The association gathers producers who have embarked on the production of food from organic materials, convinced that these products are more valuable for humans.

Our association operates across the entire expanse of Poland, and it currently holds the distinction of being the largest organization within its sector in the country. Our membership includes a diverse array of producers and processors operating across various agri-food sectors, encompassing milk and dairy products, pork and beef, as well as their derivatives, poultry and its associated products, cereals and cereal products, and an assortment of fruits and vegetables along with their processed variants.

What was the rationale behind launching the EU’s project for promoting eco-food products in the UAE? What goal does it aim to achieve?

The initiation of the project to promote EU eco-food products in the UAE is grounded in our belief in the substantial potential of the UAE market for the promotion and sale of organic food. Renowned for its exacting standards, the UAE market presents promising opportunities. EU organic food adheres rigorously to the elevated food production standards set by the European Union.

Innovations in organic agricultural production

Innovation plays a key role in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture. Here are some examples of such solutions:

Composting and biodynamic cultivation methods: Promoting natural methods of soil nutrient enrichment, such as composting or biodynamic preparations.
Agroforestry: Combining agricultural crops with tree stands to increase biodiversity, improve soil quality and protect against erosion.
Hydroponics and aquaponics: Soilless farming methods that use significantly less water compared to traditional agriculture.
Digital monitoring technologies: Applications and software that enable real-time monitoring of crop condition, yield prediction or optimisation of farm work.
Regenerative cultivation methods: Aiming to rebuild soil health through practices such as no-till, mulching or multi-year crop rotations.
Water collection and storage systems: Advanced systems for rainwater collection, drip irrigation or natural water purification methods on farms.

These innovations not only contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of organic agricultural production, but also help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions and market challenges.

Requirements for organic product certification

Organic certification indicates that a product has been produced according to organic production principles and standards. To be certified, a product must meet certain requirements. Here are some of them:

Conservation of natural resources: Organic production should focus on conserving natural resources such as water, soil, and on maintaining biodiversity. Sustainable cultivation practices, such as multi-year crop rotation, composting and minimising soil erosion, are important in organic production.
Animal safety and welfare: Production must take place with respect of animal welfare if the product contains ingredients of animal origin.
Inspection and certification system: Organic products must undergo an inspection and certification process carried out by authorised certification bodies. These bodies monitor compliance and oversee the entire production chain, from farm to processing and distribution.

Meeting these requirements allows for organic certification to be awarded, which gives consumers confidence that the product meets high standards of organic production.

Source: https://www.pcbc.gov.pl/pl/uslugi/certyfikacja-wyrobow/rolnictwo-ekologiczne

„Farm-to-fork”

The European „farm-to-fork” strategy is about working towards a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system. The strategy was developed in response to the environmental threats posed by increasing industrialisation and the use of increasingly efficient technologies in agricultural production. Loss of soil fertility, water and air pollution and threats to the biodiversity of ecosystems have necessitated radical action to ensure food security in an environmentally sustainable manner.

The overarching goal of the „farm-to-fork” strategy is to ensure that all Europeans have continuous access to sufficient, nutritious, sustainable and healthy food by moving towards sustainable food systems, among other things by:

providing sufficient amounts of inexpensive but wholesome food,
halving the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers in agricultural production,
increasing the amount of land for organic farming,
promoting more sustainable food consumption and a change in eating habits,
gradually restoring natural biodiversity,
improving animal welfare,
educating farmers on so-called good agricultural practices - the use of available technologies while respecting the environment.

Did you know that the EU organic product logo…

… was created by combining two symbols: the European flag and a leaf symbolising nature and sustainability,
… was introduced by European Commission Regulation No 271/2010 of 24 March 2010,
… may only be displayed on products that comply with the European Union’s legal provisions on organic farming.

Why is the EU organic logo on the packaging a guarantee that the product is organic?

every farmer, processor, retailer and importer who wishes to label their products with the EU organic logo must act in accordance with European Union legislation;
the establishment of organic crop and livestock production must be preceded by an inspection by an independent organic control body. Only a positive inspection result entitles the holder to be certified as an organic farmer;
in order to guarantee compliance with production rules, all organic food producers are inspected at least once a year.

EU ORGANIC FOOD – GOOD CHOICE reaching the hands of the consumer is the result of controlled production, transport and storage processes, is safe and of high quality.

We have started!

Welcome to the website of the promotional and information campaign “EU ORGANIC FOOD – GOOD CHOICE”. Our association, called POLSKA EKOLOGIA, has been active for seventeen years and brings together producers of food made from organic raw materials. Everything we do is driven by the belief that organic food is more valuable to humans and is produced in a sustainable and environmentally safe way.

We cordially invite you to join us on a journey through the tastes of organic food from the European Union!

We will soon get to know each other better on social media. We will meet at markets, restaurants, retail outlets and even… on the streets.

See you soon!