Organics in the Norwegian Defense

The Norwegian Government aims at achieving 15 % of organic production and consumption by the year 2015. As a part of this plan, the units of the Norwegian Defense in Mid-Norway have received funding for a pilot project to use organics in their kitchens. The project started in 2007 and will end in 2010. Kitchen staffs at military units have attended courses on organic food and took part in field trips to organic farms and to an organic aquaculture company. Building up knowledge and enthusiasm among the kitchen staff is considered as vital for the success of the project. 

During summer and autumn, kitchens receive fresh vegetables from local farmers. This does not only guarantee the freshest possible vegetables, but also cuts costs and supports local farming. So far, positive results have been achieved. Therefore, the use of organic food will extend to all military units by January 2010. By the end of 2010, 5 % of all food served in the Norwegian Defense shall be organic, and the aim is to reach 15 % by 2012. Since the Defense has a large food consume, the amounts of organic food used will be considerable.
 

For the scientific content of the project, Bioforsk is responsible. At a seminar in Trondheim, Norway, September 15-16, different aspects of food production and consumption will be discussed, and experiences from the project will be presented. More information can be obtained from Liv Solemdal

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