Europe’s organic sector is “working tirelessly” to ensure that organic food continues to reach the tables of EU citizens during the COVID-19 crisis, says Eduardo Cuoco, director of IFOAM EU.
In a letter to members and organic stakeholders this week, Cuoco (pictured) identifies significant challenges facing the sector as the the crisis strengthens its grip across Europe – but also highlights some brighter spots for organic.
As with many organisations and businesses, IFOAM EU is currently operating remotely. In recent weeks it has been gathering information on the impact of the pandemic on the wider agricultural sector, and organic sector specifically.
Harvest worries
Issues it has identified include challenges with upcoming harvests and planting arising from limited movement of people across Europe and strict ‘social distancing’ rules. There are additional issues for organic around physical inspections. And IFOAM EU highlights problems with long-distance transportation of agricultural products.
Among positive developments are the higher than average food sales being reported by major grocery retailers in several countries (notably Italy, Germany and Finland). Here, demand for organic products is increasing, especially for non-perishable good like pasta, rice, grains, canned food and pulses. This, Cuoco reflects, is “partly because EU citizens spend more time at home, enabling them to reflect on their food choices and cook at home”.
Box schemes booming
Box scheme subscriptions and home deliveries are also up in several countries, including Finland, Italy and the UK (where some operators have struggled to meet very high levels of demand). Many restaurants and catering businesses, which face temporary closure, have been also launched food delivery services to offset losses.
IFOAM EU says it welcomes measures from EU institutions to support the agri-food sector. However it warns against any temporary exemptions from greening requirements and urges caution against any measures that could produce negative environment impacts.
Main image: Chegworth Valley Farm Shop. Jim Manson