For Consumer
Conscious choice for health and environment
Why Choose Organic
Consumers are increasingly interested in choosing healthy food and want to know where and how the food they consume is produced. Choosing organic food offers numerous benefits, ranging from health protection to environmental preservation. Below are some key reasons why it is worth choosing certified organic products.
Production in harmony with nature
During organic production, only permitted natural fertilizers and plant protection products derived from natural sources are used. This controlled approach ensures that food is safe and clean, without harmful pesticide residues. Although some farmers use pesticides, these are mostly derived from natural raw materials and must be approved for use in organic production. Their use is allowed only when other methods are ineffective.
Exclusion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
The use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is prohibited in organic agriculture. This means that the seeds, animal feed, and other inputs used by farmers are not genetically modified and do not contain GMO-derived components.
Clean and nutritious products, health
Organic food cannot contain artificial colorants, flavorings, or preservatives. Consuming such clean food means having a cleaner diet and, consequently, fewer health problems. In contrast, the production of non-organic processed and packaged foods allows the use of chemicals and additives, including preservatives, flavorings, and colorants, which may cause health issues.
Soil health and sustainability
Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy food and a healthy environment and is the basis of organic agriculture. Organic farming takes care of soil health. To maintain healthy soil, organic producers use organic fertilizers and soil conditioners such as organic matter (which can be composted), green manures (derived from cover crops grown specifically to improve soil quality, such as legumes), and manure (in compliance with safety requirements). Crops grown in healthy soil are more able to resist pests and survive adverse weather conditions.
Nutritional value
Organic food contains more vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and micronutrients than non-organic food. Numerous scientific studies show that production methods can influence the nutritional value of food.
Industrial and other waste
Industrial and other waste materials are never used in organic agriculture. Such waste is treated waste and contains many known and unknown hazardous substances, including everything that enters sewage systems. After treatment, these waters may be used in agriculture as fertilizers. Organic production follows clearly defined processes for sowing, cultivation, maturation, and processing. It is especially important that certain methods are prohibited. These include the use of industrial and other waste, irradiation, and genetic engineering, all of which are forbidden in the cultivation and processing of organic food.
Production without harmful interventions or irradiation
Organic production does not use irradiation, industrial waste, or artificial hormones that may disrupt the natural growth of plants or animals. This approach ensures clean and natural food while respecting the environment and human health.
Climate resilience
One of the most important advantages of organic agriculture is soil-centered production, which focuses on preserving and improving soil quality. Healthy soil helps combat climate change by absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.
Biodiversity preservation and pollinators
The large-scale intensive use of chemicals poses a threat to pollinators. Organically grown crops help protect pollinators from pesticides. Organic agriculture standards prohibit the use of synthetic chemicals, many of which are toxic to bees and can persist in the environment for long periods. Moreover, organic farmers are expected to apply practices that support biodiversity conservation and enrich natural resources.
People working in agriculture
Organic agriculture does not expose neighboring communities or farm workers to hazardous chemicals. Chemicals pose significant risks to people involved in agriculture and can cause health problems. Nearby communities may also be affected if a large non-organic farm or orchard operates close by. The spread of chemicals can threaten human health, wildlife, and ecosystems.
Environment
Organic agriculture has many positive impacts on the environment. It restores soil health and prevents harmful chemicals from entering water resources. Water and soil are critically important resources for food production. Organic farmers do not use non-renewable, petroleum-based fertilizers and chemicals. Furthermore, organic agriculture results in significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Water resources
Many by-products of non-organic agriculture pose a risk to water bodies and contaminate drinking water supplies. Materials from farms, such as fertilizers and chemicals, can enter nearby streams and rivers. Organic agriculture helps protect rivers and lakes from the inflow of toxic substances. Like other farmers, organic producers need nitrogen and phosphorus to ensure crop growth. However, unlike non-organic farms, organic farms rarely use chemical fertilizers, as they are more costly and contradict organic principles of maintaining soil fertility. Organic farms use natural organic fertilizers and soil conditioners such as organic blends, green manures, and animal manure. Unlike synthetic inputs, organic fertilizers provide crops with complex nutrients that act gradually and enter soil and water in limited amounts.
Reduced cancer risk
Consumption of organic food may reduce the risk of cancer. Studies have shown that people who consume organic food have relatively lower cancer risks. Overall, organic food consumption contributes to long-term health and safety.
Where to buy organic products in Armenia
Conscious consumer choice is becoming increasingly important, helping to ensure demand for genuinely organic food.
Supermarkets and shopping centers
Both imported and some locally produced certified organic products can be purchased in Armenia at supermarkets, large shopping centers, and stores (with special attention paid to product labeling and logos).
Green Day organic store
Armenia is also home to the Green Day organic store, which offers an accessible and wide selection of organic products.
Direct contact with producers
Local Armenian organic products can also be purchased directly by contacting producers and farmers, following their social media pages and updates.