CARE, HEALTH, ECOLOGY & FAIRNESS
The principles of organic agriculture highlight the vital role that organic agriculture plays in creating a greener, cleaner, and more ethical global food and agricultural system. They have a strong influence on our approach in the organic market.
The principles are officially composed as inter-connected ethical principles to inspire the organic movement by IFOAM Organics International:
- Care: organic agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment.
- Health: organic agriculture should sustain and enhance the health of soil, plant, animal, human and planet as one and indivisible.
- Ecology: organic agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with them, emulate them and help sustain them.
- Fairness: organic agriculture should build on relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the common environment and life opportunities.
To emphasize their importance, we have assigned an ambassador to each principle who demonstrates how these values guide and inspire our operations.
Meet our ambassadors below or view the factsheet for an overview of the four principles of organic farming.
PRINCIPLE OF CARE
By practicing organic agriculture we prevent significant risks. We prioritize proven techniques while avoiding unpredictable methods, ensuring our food is healthy, safe, and environmentally sustainable. Our decisions are guided by the values and needs of those impacted, always acting with caution and care to protect people and the planet.
Dominique Flederus from Packaging Operations, and Care ambassador, shares her thoughts on this principle.
"As part of the DO IT Organic packaging team, I understand that organic farming goes beyond crops - it's about protecting what matters most. Working for a company that provides fully organic ingredients, we ensure our food supports healthy soils and the well-being of future generations. It's crucial that we act responsibly to keep our planet healthy and liveable for years to come."
PRINCIPLE OF HEALTH
As an organic specialist, we take our responsibility to sustain and enhance the health of our ecosystems. We focus on contributing to preventative care and well-being. By rejecting fertilizers, pesticides, and chemical additives, we prioritize the health of the environment and all who depend on it.
Mireille Hakken, Business Controller and our Health ambassador, shares her insights on how organic agriculture benefits both the planet and personal health.
"I’m committed to promoting the clear health benefits of organic agriculture. Unlike conventional methods, organic farming avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can leave harmful residues on food and degrade soil health. By using natural methods and focusing on soil fertility, organic practices not only produce cleaner, more nutritious food but also protect the ecosystem and support long-term environmental health."
PRINCIPLE OF ECOLOGY
Driven by the understanding that healthy soils and thriving ecosystems are essential for sustainable agriculture, we aim to work in harmony with nature together with organic farmers. By prioritizing biodiversity and ecosystem protection, we ensure food security and strengthen the resilience of food systems while contributing to the well-being of both people and planet.
Noah Timp, Marketing & Communication Specialist and our Ecology Ambassador, shares insights on how the principle of Ecology is embodied in organic farming.
"It becomes increasingly clear that everything is interconnected. Our ecosystems are intricately linked, and organic farming practices help maintain this balance, unlike conventional methods that often exploit these systems. By respecting nature and avoiding harmful interventions, we can positively influence many aspects of our food chain and support a healthier, more biodiverse planet."
PRINCIPLE OF FAIRNESS
We help to provide the people involved with organic agriculture with a good quality of life, and contribute to food sovereignty and reduction of poverty. Supporting fair systems means we work with open and equitable chains, ensuring fairness at all levels and to all parties.
Koen Swart, Category Manager and ambassador of this principle, shares his personal perspective on why fairness is so important in the organic agricultural system.
"Working for a company that upholds fair relationships in the broadest possible way is incredibly meaningful. It's about creating a system where everyone is treated justly and has a fair stake in the outcomes. Unfortunately, these standards aren't always met. For me, fairness also means open communication, transparent processes, and equal opportunities for everyone."
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?
We collaborate with farmers who work in harmony with nature, applying crop rotation and avoiding synthetic chemicals. This nurtures healthy soils, pollinators and ecosystems. Closer to our home base in the Netherlands, we partner with The Pollinators to encourage others to support pollinating insects.
Organic farming avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, resulting in cleaner food and a healthier environment. Combined with fertile soils and natural cycles, it contributes to nutritious, high-quality ingredients.
We invest in sustainable farming practices and responsible sourcing to ensure that natural resources remain available for generations to come. Care is about thinking long-term, not short-term profit.
Fairness for us means that everyone in the supply chain is treated with respect. Farmers are paid a fair price, workers have safe conditions, and customers can trust they are buying authentic certified organic products.
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