EU prioritises organic and local food for public services
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The European Union is changing how public institutions buy food, creating a potential new market for organic and locally-sourced products.
European officials are enabling public agencies to require a certain percentage of food purchased be organic or carry quality certifications like Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). This means that price will no longer be the only or main factor in public food procurement competitions.
The new regulations will affect millions of meals served daily in schools, hospitals, military facilities, and other public buildings across Europe, creating consistent demand for higher-quality, environmentally friendly products. Diego Canga, a senior official at the European Commission for agriculture, announced the upcoming change, stating the legislation is nearing approval. He believes this change will strongly support producers of PDO products. This policy is particularly relevant for Greece, which has a large number of certified agricultural products.
Items like feta cheese, olive oil, fruits, and legumes with European certifications will gain easier access to this market, which previously prioritised cost. The EU is also focusing on imported food, planning to strengthen inspection procedures to ensure all products entering the European market meet EU standards. Ultimately, Europe intends to use public purchasing power to advance its agricultural and environmental goals.
