What Are Organic Products? What Are the Natural Environmental Requirements for Organic Products?
1. Organic Products: These are products produced through organic farming methods, without the use of synthetic chemicals such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, growth stimulants, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The organic production process begins with selecting natural, pure seeds, preparing soil with decomposed organic compost, microbial fertilizers, or green manure, and controlling pests using biological preparations, herbal remedies, or manual methods. Additionally, organic farming emphasizes ecosystem balance, protecting soil, water, and biodiversity.
To be recognized as organic, producers must adhere to strict standards set by certification systems such as USDA Organic (USA), EU Organic (Europe), or PGS (Vietnam). These standards require clear product origins, transparent farming processes, detailed production logs, and regular inspections by independent certification bodies. Compliance with these processes and standards not only ensures consumer safety but also contributes to environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development.
2. Natural Environmental Requirements for Organic Products:
a. Clean Agricultural Soil
– Free from chemical contamination: The soil must not contain residues of pesticides, heavy metals, or industrial chemicals.
– No synthetic fertilizers or chemicals used for at least 2–3 years prior to organic production (depending on certification standards).
– Soil fertility is maintained and enhanced using organic compost, microbial fertilizers, or green manure, preventing depletion or erosion.
b. Clean Water Source
– Irrigation water must be free from toxic chemicals, oil, industrial wastewater, or pathogenic microorganisms.
– If sourced from rivers, streams, or lakes, water must undergo basic filtration, sedimentation, or source protection measures.
c. Clean, Unpolluted Air
– Cultivation areas must not be located near industrial zones, landfills, large-scale livestock farms, or major roads with high dust and emissions.
– Clean air prevents plants from absorbing toxins through leaves, reducing risks to product quality.
d. Buffer Zone Protection
– A buffer zone is required between organic and conventional farming areas to prevent contamination from external chemicals or pesticides.
– Buffer zones typically range from 3–10 meters, depending on terrain and standards.
e. Diverse and Balanced Ecosystem
– Intercropping and crop rotation with other plants are encouraged to enhance biodiversity and naturally reduce pests.
– Preserve natural vegetation and maintain beneficial ecosystems (e.g., bees, birds, natural predators).
f. Protection of Beneficial Insects and Soil Microorganisms
– Avoid using chemical pesticides that indiscriminately kill insects.
– Create conditions for bees, ladybugs, soil microorganisms, and earthworms to thrive naturally, as they help control pests and improve soil health.
