Dutch trio turn to organic tomatoes as demand grows
Growing demand in the Dutch organic sector was the inspiration behind an initiative by three brothers to ramp up production of tomatoes and cucumbers on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland. 
Making the switch from growing conventional tomatoes to organic, is Organic Brothers, run by Dirk Pieter and Aris and Rochus van der Meer.
They only started organic production for the Nature & More label earlier this year in the small village of Sirjansland but are already reaping the benefits with volumes now ready for export to the U.K.
“"What we like about organic most is the special attention to taste and the interest that organic consumers have in the grower’'s story,"” says Aris van der Meer.
"“To me, a high production volume is a bit less important than having excellent taste.”"
Aris and his brothers are growing organic on the vine Roma tomatoes and Pomodorini variety this season as well as standard organic on the vine tomatoes and cucumbers.
Previously, the brothers were already trying to improve the environment of the greenhouse by planting trees, wildflowers and hedges, but have now doubled efforts to create a healthy living soil and environment.
“"We imported 3,000 cubic meters of compost. We are also going to start a crop rotation scheme with tomatoes and cucumbers. This way we can keep soil fertility at point. And, of course that benefits taste too.”"
Since 2000, spending in the NetherlandsÂ’s organic sector has tripled with the number of certified organic companies also increasing as consumer demand for organics continues to rise.
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