What are organic products?

In a world that increasingly values health, sustainability, and transparency, the terms natural and organic are becoming more familiar. Whether it is the food we eat, the products we use, or the ways we care for the planet, many people are seeking cleaner, more eco-friendly choices. But what do organic and natural really mean, especially when it comes to food?

What does organic mean?

Organic products are cultivated and produced without synthetic chemicals, artificial additives, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, they rely on natural processes and materials to maintain ecological balance and preserve biodiversity. To be officially labeled as organic, products must meet strict standards set by recognized certifying bodies—like the EU Organic Certification in Europe or USDA Organic in the United States.

What is organic farming?

Organic farming focuses on working with nature rather than against it. Instead of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, farmers use natural fertilizers like compost and manure.  This method supports:

• Healthy soil
• Clean water
• Biodiversity
• Animal welfare

Organic farming practices aim to conserve water, reduce pollution, and maintain soil health. 

For example, organic farming avoids GMOs entirely and encourages humane conditions for animals, including natural feed and more living space.

Is organic the same as natural?

Not quite. While organic products follow certified standards, natural products may not. The word natural can refer to something that hasn’t been altered by humans—such as wild berries and herbs that grow freely in the forest or meadows.

At Natural Nordic, we value both: the assurance of certified organic farming and the purity of wild-harvested ingredients. But even forest berries aren’t automatically considered organic unless the area is certified (by the forest owner) for organic wild harvesting.

In our next blog, we’ll explore this difference more closely in Cultivated vs. forest berries — stay tuned

Towards sustainable Europe with organic products