Organic milk is gaining ground in the European market, where demand for organic products grows annually by approximately 7–8%, according to Eurostat 2024 data. However, Romania holds only a modest share, with just 2% of total milk production coming from certified organic farms, which highlights a significant development potential.

Organic dairy farms face higher production costs, estimated at 2.8–3 lei/liter, compared to 2.3–2.4 lei/liter for conventional milk. On the other hand, the selling price is higher: processors pay 3.2–3.5 lei/liter, while retail prices reach 8–10 lei/liter. This difference reflects the added value and consumer interest in natural and sustainable products.

In Romania, approximately 450 farms are certified for organic milk production, most of them small and medium-sized. The majority are located in Transylvania and the northern regions of the country, where natural pastures help meet organic standards. Nevertheless, the lack of collection and processing infrastructure limits the expansion of this segment.

For 2025, specialists estimate a doubling of the number of certified organic farms, thanks to PNS funding and the growing interest of processors and retailers. Organic milk can become a profitable niche for Romanian farms, provided they invest in certification, marketing, and distribution.

(Photo: Freepik)