The Demeter Brand

When the label says Demeter, Demeter is what you get

Demeter is an international brand for products from Biodynamic Agriculture. Only strictly controlled and contractually bound partners are permitted to use the brand. A comprehensive verification process ensures strict compliance with the International Demeter Production and Processing Standards, as well as applicable organic regulations in the various countries; without a gap, through every step, from agricultural production to processing and final product packaging.

The holistic Demeter requirements exceed government-mandated regulations. Not only do they exclude the use of synthetic fertilisers and chemical plant protection agents in agricultural crop production, or artificial additives during processing, but also require very specific measures to strengthen the life processes in soil and foodstuffs. Demeter farmers and processors actively contribute toward the shaping of a future worth living for, creating healthy foods of distinctive tastes, truly “Foods with Character”. Demeter – the brand you can trust in.

Demeter International

Demeter is the only ecological association that has built up a network of individual certification organisations worldwide. Presently Demeter International has 18 members and 5 guest members from Europe, America, Africa and New Zealand. Demeter-International represents about 5.000 Demeter farms, with over 170.000 hectares in more than 50 countries.

Demeter International is a contemporary example of cooperation based on commitment, transparency, and regional independence.

Demeter India

Since 2008, The Biodynamic Association of India hosts and manages the Demeter Certification Office – India. Originally invited as a guest- member, it has now received full membership status and will operate the Demeter India Office under a license from Demeter International which is the owner of the trademark. The Demeter Certification Committee of the BDAI coordinates the interface with the Certification Office.

The task of the Coordination Committee and the Demeter Certification Office is:

Ensure reliable, honest, transparent and fair procedures for inspection and certification of producers, processors and traders in India who want to use the Demeter trademark.
Negotiating special exemptions and certification conditions for India with Demeter International as required.

There is a strict separation of the Demeter Certification Office from the rest of our association executive to prevent any bias and influence in the certification process and to maintain client confidentiality. All records are maintained in separate facilities and even the email domain servers are kept separate so that emails and communication of the DCO are only accessible to DCO staff and inspectors.

Growth

Create Awareness and a Buy-in for the Demeter Brand with Consumers

We plan to create a country-wide network of Consumer-Producer groups under our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Initiative. Biodynamic farmers will directly meet and supply produce to small CSA groups. A target of 100 CSAs is set for small and large towns across the country.
In partnership with progressive State Governments, we will facilitate inclusive value chains for biodynamic produce with a consumer education campaign.

Phase-wise Farm Conversion from Organic to Biodynamic and then Demeter Certified

In synergy with the national campaign to promote organic farming, we have a special task force to train and advice farms and plantations for conversion. With increasing demand and driven by our CSA initiatives, many smaller farmers will be required to undergo Demeter certification to serve the domestic market.