Bulgaria – Organic food for thought

The village of Aheloy on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is perhaps best known for its fertile soils, healthy climate and flourishing pastures, orchards and vineyards. Tasty red and white wines are locally produced and farms grow organic fruit and vegetables.

The concept of organic agriculture in Bulgaria is relatively new, only introduced after the fall of the communist regime in 1990 when agricultural land was divided up into small plots and redistributed among the population. New landowners included former factory or office workers and for some, organic agriculture seemed to be a promising way to make a living.

In most western European countries, in order to be certified “organic”, it usually takes between five to six years to remove unsuitable materials from the soil. However, as under communist rule, there was a widespread unavailability of synthetic crops and seeds, very little residue is present in Bulgarian soil and it takes only one to two years to convert. This has made Bulgarian land prime for organic produce.

Though once considered a niche market, the organic food sector has continued to grow and the market alone in the EU is worth around €15b. Currently 90 per cent of all Bulgarian organic food is exported to wealthier EU members and the country’s economy looks to capitalise on the growing export market. Both the EU and the Bulgarian government are keen to encourage the transition to organic practices and between them are distributing subsidies worth €12.6m amongst organic farmers and food producers in Bulgaria.

In 2005, 0.23% of all agricultural land was farmed organically. Primary organic crops include: apples, strawberries, raspberries, plums, walnuts, grape-vine and tobacco; cultivated herbs such as peppermint and lavender, as well as oils from roses and lavender. Dairy products from cows, sheep and goats (fresh milk, white cheese), meat (lambs, baby-beef), honey and jam.

Interestingly, by the end of 2005, 62,183 Ha of wild land had been certified as organic areas for the collection of wild fruits, herbs and mushrooms, an increase in certified land of 123% over 2004. Mushrooms, herbs and nuts are among the commonly available organic forest products.

In Aheloy, 15 minutes from Bourgas International Airport and 7km south west of the World Heritage Site of Nesebar, the crystal clear lakes, racing rivers, natural mineral springs and wild mountains, combined with a temperate climate, make for a fertile land where organic farming is prevalent. Add fine golden sands, clear blue sea, ancient history and warm hearted villagers and Aheloy is just the place for those looking for the peace and quiet not present in other neighbouring resorts and for fresh, flavoursome food untouched by pesticides and the like.

A new four star development – Aheloy Beach Residence – is being constructed adjoining the banks of the Aheloy River and the shores of the Black Sea. This fully functioning private holiday village will offer total leisure and entertainment features, including shopping centres, restaurants, watersports, fitness centre, beauty centre, etc. Studios, one and two bedroom apartments are available from Bulgaria Revealed from just £30,000 / €45,400.

For further information, visit bulgariarevealed.com.