Some terms from the world of science and sustainability are not so easy to understand. But don’t worry – in our new series “Simply explained”, we break down complex topics and technical terms into understandable words. This makes science accessible, entertaining and exciting for you!
What is organic farming?
Organic farming is an agricultural method in which food and other agricultural products are produced in a particularly environmentally friendly and resource-saving way.
Organic farming, also known as ecological farming, organic agriculture or “organic farming, has many benefits for our environment. It not only promotes a circular economy, but also protects our soil, water and climate. By avoiding the use of synthetic chemical pesticides, it also preserves biodiversity on agricultural land.

What are the regulations for organic products?
In the EU, there are clear regulations for organic products in order to meet the demand for trustworthy organic products and to create a fair market throughout the value chain. When a product is produced organically, certain rules must be strictly adhered to, such as the ban on genetically modified organisms, the very limited use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides, as well as a ban on hormones and limited use of antibiotics in livestock farming. On the other hand, various measures should be taken to sustainably maintain soil fertility as well as animal and plant health. You can find more exciting and relevant information on regulations and guidelines for organic products here.

How can you correctly identify an organic product?
The EU organic logo (a green leaf with stars) has been awarded in the EU since 2010 to all organic products that have been produced in accordance with the guidelines of the EU Organic Regulation. If “organic products” are imported from non-EU countries, there is no guarantee that they also comply with the official organic regulations of the EU. In Austria, you can recognize an organic product by the label “aus biologischer Landwirtschaft”, “biologisch”, “ökologisch” or “aus ökologischem Landbau”. Often only the short form “Bio” is printed on the product. In addition, the code number of the inspection body, the EU organic seal and possibly other quality seals, such as the Bio Austria logo, are also recognizable on the product. A reference to the origin of the product is given under the inspection body code, such as “Austrian agriculture” or “EU agriculture”.