Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545759
What is Organic Food? Organic food is produced using farming methods that work with natural processes. It avoids genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and strictly limits synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers. Instead of relying on chemical inputs to increase production, organic farming focuses on natural systems that support long-term soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance. Organic farming typically uses methods such as crop rotation, composting, animal manure, green fertilisers, and biological pest control. These techniques help maintain productivity while reducing environmental impact, improving soil quality, and preserving natural resources for future generations. The aim is not only food production, but also environmental protection and sustainable land use. In Malta, organic farming is still developing but gradually expanding. The share of organically farmed agricultural land increased from around 0.3% in 2012 to 0.6% in 2022, showing slow but steady growth. National policy aims to reach around 5% of utilised agricultural area by 2030, reflecting a stronger long-term commitment to sustainable agriculture. There is also increasing interest in organic aquaculture, with efforts encouraged to expand production and provide more locally sourced sustainable seafood. Growth in the sector is supported through national and EU funding, including financial assistance for farmers converting to organic systems and for maintaining certification. This includes support through the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan, as well as contributions from European maritime and fisheries funding programmes. Additional investment has also been directed toward training, knowledge sharing, and skills development to help producers transition successfully. How Organic Food is Controlled Organic food in the European Union is strictly regulated under a common certification system. Every organic product must comply with official production standards and undergo regular inspection by approved control bodies. This ensures consistency, transparency, and consumer trust across all EU member states, including Malta. To be sold as organic, products must: • Meet EU organic farming regulations • Be regularly inspected and certified by authorised bodies • Display the official EU organic logo for traceability These rules guarantee that organic products are produced according to strict environmental and farming standards, from farm to final product. Certification also helps ensure that consumers can clearly identify genuine organic products in the marketplace. In Malta, implementation of these standards is supported by national strategies aimed at strengthening the sector. However, organic farming faces structural challenges, including small, fragmented, and scattered land holdings, which can limit economic efficiency and make long- term farm viability more difficult. These conditions can also affect generational renewal, as younger farmers may find entry into the sector challenging without additional support. To address this, Malta is continuously refining its agricultural policies. Efforts focus on strengthening organisational leadership in the sector, improving market development, and expanding access to knowledge and training. Financial support is also provided to encourage both conversion to organic farming and continued organic production. In addition, significant investment has been allocated to support the transition, including approximately €2.3 million through the CAP Strategic Plan and over €3 million from the national budget. These funds support training programmes, skills development, land access initiatives, and the conversion of suitable sites into organic production areas, including those adapted for innovative systems such as photovoltaic greenhouses. Together, these measures aim to strengthen Malta's organic sector, improve sustainability, and gradually increase the availability of locally produced organic food. 05