Nurturing Every Juan: Naturland’s European Organic Campaign Champions Organic Food Adoption in the Philippines
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| European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan |
It’s about time we start looking at organic and sustainable choices not just for ourselves, but for the planet we share. Yet for many Filipinos, “organic” still feels like something exclusive or expensive. That’s why the launch of “European Organic: Nurturing Every Juan” by Naturland and the European Union was such a timely and meaningful step forward.
Held last September 23, 2025 at Grace Park Dining -- a restaurant from celebrated chef Margarita Forés’ legacy and a strong supporter of the organic movement -- the event served as both a celebration and a learning experience. Guests were treated to a curated lunch that showcased the quality, care, and craftsmanship behind organic European ingredients, highlighting what sets them apart.
The menu was a beautiful mix of local flavors and organic European touches:
- Fried Filipino Mushroom Field with Balayan Bagna Cauda
- 3-Page Organic Field Greens with Honey Dijon
- Whole Roasted Philippine Seabass with Kalinga Etag, Olives, and Tomatoes
- Bahay na Puti Oxtail Kare-Kare with Tendons Balbacua and Homemade Bagoong
- Avocado Tart
Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, showing that “organic” doesn’t mean less flavor. It means food grown and made with purpose.
A Movement Rooted in Integrity and Care
Naturland e.V., one of the world’s leading international associations for organic agriculture, is driving the conversation on the importance of adopting organic food in the Philippines. As Marco Schlüter, Managing Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, shared:Organic is not just a label -- it’s a promise of integrity, transparency, and sustainability that creates value for people, businesses, and the planet. By choosing organic, we are working with nature, not against it.
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| Marco Schlüter, Managing Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland |
His words resonated deeply. In a time when more Filipinos want to eat mindfully, this campaign helps bridge awareness and accessibility. According to the PwC 2025 Voice of the Consumer report, 67% of Filipinos now consider nutritional value a key factor in their food purchases. Another study by Food Industry Asia found that 99% of Filipino consumers want to adopt mindful eating habits but hope the industry will make it easier and more attainable.
What Makes Something Truly Organic
During the panel discussion, Tom van der Meulen, Managing Director of Control Union Philippines, explained what it really means for a product to be certified organic under EU standards. |
| Tom van der Meulen, Managing Director of Control Union Philippines |
Under EU regulations, organic food production protects both people and the planet. This means:
- No genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- Minimal use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides
- 100% organic feed for animals
- Natural methods to maintain soil and plant health
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| The EU organic logo serves as visible proof for businesses and consumers that a product is genuinely organic |
Certifications like the EU organic logo and the Naturland seal indicate that products have been independently verified by third parties to meet strict standards of transparency, sustainability, and quality. When customers see these on the shelves, they are assured that these products were produced with care and comply with high-quality organic practices
van der Meulen explained.
The EU organic logo serves as visible proof that a product is genuinely organic, and for consumers, a sign they can trust.
The EU organic logo serves as visible proof that a product is genuinely organic, and for consumers, a sign they can trust.
Going Beyond Standards
While the EU organic certification already follows rigorous requirements, Naturland takes it further. The association integrates social responsibility and fair employment practices into its standards -- covering working conditions, social benefits, and the protection of human rights. These principles apply not only to farmers but also to producers and retailers, reflecting a holistic approach to sustainability. |
| Naturland seal |
Schlüter added,
Our mission is to drive the shift to organic forward in the Philippines. As we share further knowledge about organic practices and engage with more stakeholders in the local food sector, we hope to make organic more accessible to every Juan. We aim to empower every Juan to embrace organic European products with confidence. We invite Filipino consumers and businesses to join us in this movement.
Nurturing Every Juan
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| European organic products with Naturland seal |
Nurturing every Juan begins with nurturing the world we live in.
