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Health & Wellbeing

ORGANIC IN RUHR

© Ökolandbau
© Ökolandbau

Healthy organic food has a long standing tradition in Germany. The term Bio is an abbreviation of ecological, Biologisch, and refers to all health products in general. To enable consumers to identify and trust ecological products, an official seal of approval was developed in 2001. Strict regulations, rigorous controls and high penalties serve to prevent offence and abuse. Producers, processors, traders, importers and consumers can easily gain trust concerning the use of the seal.

Many small organic or whole food shops are to be found across the Ruhr Metropolis as are a few organic supermarket chains. Most mainstream supermarkets and discounters also have long presented their own organic product lines. This section of the market stands for the development of a broader group of buyers as well as a more aggressive price policy. That also means that smaller whole food stores have to bear the brunt, in spite of their good quality.

A few elusive organic names can be seen on some products. Those wishing to ensure an authentic product is bought, should only purchase goods with the official German symbol or the overarching EU one. This one developed, interestingly, by a graphic designer from nearby Düsseldorf. 

By Vincent Green, Jul 1 2021

Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

Rochusstrasse 1
52123 Bonn

+49 228 242 526 27

Cyclist on narrow modern bridge

CYCLING IN RUHR

Cycling in the Ruhr Metropolis can be enjoyable and most rewarding. Bike paths criss cross the whole of the region and weave their way across most urban areas. Hop on a bicycle to discover quieter city districts or nearby villages. Try riding along the banks of local rivers, in wilder natural spaces or the open meadows of outlying regions.

HIKING IN RUHR

Many open spaces entice hikers into the surrounding countryside. Try heading out to wonderful hillsides and woodlands or reclaimed industrial areas. The Ruhr region also offers pathways and trail around impressive lakes or former important waterways.

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