Demeter

Demeter e.V. is the oldest organic association in Germany, founded in 1924. The name is derived from the Greek mother and fertility goddess Demeter and stands for sustainable and biodynamic agriculture based on the principles of anthroposophy by Rudolf Steiner.

Demeter offers a comprehensive range of products that includes over 3,500 food items, cosmetics, and fashion articles. These products are primarily sold in organic stores and health food shops, but also in many supermarket chains. Biodynamic agriculture includes not only the cultivation of food but also ecological animal husbandry and the production of natural cosmetics[1][2][5].

The main mission of Demeter is to promote a sustainable and vibrant circular economy, where humans, plants, animals, and soil are considered as a whole. Demeter represents values such as regionalization, subsidiarity, and respectful treatment of earth, plants, animals, and humans. The association firmly opposes discriminatory or inhumane behaviors and promotes social interaction and diversity[1][4][5].

Demeter goes far beyond the requirements of the EU Organic Regulation and sets stricter guidelines for the cultivation and processing of products. Chemical-synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetic engineering are prohibited. The focus is on breeding plants and animals that are adapted to organic farming and on preserving the humus layer, which is essential for carbon dioxide binding and thus for climate protection[2][4][5].

Demeter is also engaged in social initiatives, such as the integration of people with disabilities, the operation of school farms, and the promotion of solidarity-based agriculture. The association enables consumers to actively participate in the work of the association through supporting memberships, thus helping to shape the guidelines and goals of the association[4][5].

Demeter is represented as an international organic brand on all continents. Over 40 countries worldwide operate according to Demeter guidelines, with about 4,300 farmers and a total area of around 130,000 hectares. The international Demeter guidelines are coordinated by the Biodynamic Federation - Demeter International (BFDI), while the national guidelines are adapted to local conditions[2][5].

Demeter e.V. is thus not only an association but a global community committed to sustainable, social, and ecological agriculture while maintaining the highest quality standards.

• 1 - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demeter_(Deutschland)
• 2 - https://www.xing.com/pages/demetere-v/about_us
• 3 - https://www.xing.com/pages/demeter-felderzeugnisse-gmbh/about_us
• 4 - https://www.demeter.de
• 5 - https://www.demeter.de/ueber-uns