Brasília, July 26, 2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Organic agricultural production in Brazil has been experiencing significant growth and already arouses consumer interest based on the health advantages these products offer. Organic foods are cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

According to the president of the Organic Agriculture Sectorial Chamber, José Pedro Santiago, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the advantages of organic products, not only for health but for the environment as well.

In addition to vegetables, Brazil already produces eggs, milk, meat, wine, and even organic sugar cane liquor ("cachaça"), which is being exported to Europe. "There are already companies specialized in exporting organic products, lessening the difficulties faced by producers in reaching the international market," Santiago explained, observing that organic agriculture already accounts for US$ 21 billion in business annually around the world.

According to Santiago, in terms of costs, organic agriculture still cannot be considered more advantageous than traditional agriculture. While producers do not need to buy pesticides, they have to invest in cultivation techniques and labor. He recalled, however, that lower prices should come as production increases.

There are currently 10 thousand organic farmers in Brazil, the majority in the Southeast and South. In the Northeast there is only one producers' association.

The president of the Sectorial Chamber informed that a law pássed this year requiring that all organic products be certified is in the process of being regulated. A good portion of organic products sold in Brazilian supermarkets already carries the seal of reliable certifying agencies.

Reporter: Nasi Brum
Translator: David Silberstein.