While in countries such as Germany the market has difficulties to supply the growing demand for produce from ecological farming, in Italy the situation is quite the opposite. Those searching for healthy food have difficulties finding so-called biological products. To help out, we have compiled aome useful information here.
Northern Italy in particular shows a clear trend toward bio- markets – yet also in Umbria , a small but attractive market for ecological produce is getting more attention : the „ Mercato Terra Viva“ in Perugia. Every first Sunday of the month various suppliers from the region offer their goods on the charming Piazza Piccinino , all around the old Etruscan well. The market is not abundantly rich in offers , but the colourful assortment is highly recommendable : fresh vegetables and fruit of the season , juices , olive oil , soaps and scents , fresh herbs , homemade jams , an astounding variety of honeys , tempting cheeses or fragrant country bread , not to mention untensils such as earthenware pottery and basketry , all offered under colourful sunshades.
Buying ecological produce in your regular supermarket , however , ist often a lot more difficult . In Italy , the supermarket chain COOP is reacting to market demand with a brand line „Coop Bio “ and the so- called „ Solidal “ products that are made accordsing to the „Fair Trade“ principles . You may also find „ Erboristerie “ in some towns , who will sell natural cosmetics , household and body care products as well as occasional offers of special herbs . Erboristerie have become rather popular . Meanwhile , even the web has a good selection of ecological products : http://www.labiobottega.com .
It is also worthwhile to check out some internet portals who have ample information on suppliers of biological products as well as the legal standards that regulate the production of ecological products . Of course , they also inform on products for all aspects of life and offer various links: www.acquistiverdi.it and www.lifegate.it . The latter is designed as an attractive magazine with different columns and constantly changing topical contributions on ecological matters
A special ( ecological ) tip for avid gardeners : 25 years ago already , Japanese scientist Prof. Dr. Teru Higa developed a combination of 80 different microorganisms , called EM ( Effective Microorganisms ), which are a valuable alternative to chemical fertilizers . EM is used in gardening , agriculture and even for cleaning purposes in households . EM can also be obtained selectively in Italy – for more information , please refer to http://www.em-chiemgau.de , www.em-italia.com and http://www.emtrading.com
