Denmark launches Europe’s first organic food business group

The Food and Agriculture Ministry is launching Europe’s first organic food business group to assist the Danish government in boosting the sector, according to the CPH Post Online. Already now, the Danes are the most pro-organic consumers in the world. Denmark is still the nation in the world that has the highest share of sold organic food products, according to new figures from national statistics keeper Danmarks Statistik.

The Danish Agriculture and Food Council is convinced the Danish market has the potential to reach a target of 300,000 hectares of organic farming area by 2020. Nevertheless the food and environment minister, Esben Lunde Larsen, believes there is more untapped potential in the organic market.

“I think the organic market holds even greater potential, especially in those areas of Denmark where more growth and jobs are particularly needed,” Larsen stated. “The organic business group can help us refine the framework for the market conditions, so that unnecessary rules and a lack of co-operation across the organic sector do not stand in the way of further development.”

The business group consists of representatives from companies such as Arla, Thise, Coop,  Hørkram, Netto, Meyer’s Canteens and the Food & Agriculture organization. Their recommendations are expected to be presented in the spring next year.