Let us start by telling you, what does organic mean?
It refers to the way the fruits and vegetables are grown without the use of fertilizers, chemicals, bio-engineered genes (GMOs) or preservatives. The farming system of this produce relies on crop rotation, plant and animal manure and biological pest control.
Having said that, there are so many options available now that it has become difficult to differentiate between what is really organic and what is not.The best practise is to check the label, produce that is 100% organic will have a label that says so! If there is no such label, you will have to research about the certification standard of the label that is there. So it is best to get all your certifications in place and adhere to the standards because the government has very strict rules here!
While we are at it, let us give you another quick tip, if the fruits and vegetables are “organic” their shelf life will be limited to a certain time period (as there are no additives and preservatives) so Buy Less and Consume Fast.
Now let’s get down to business, or tell you how to start your business!
Step 1: Identify your Target Audience
Select a location where people are more aware of the health benefits of these products and more importantly have the capability to pay for it (as organic fruits and vegetables are comparatively expensive)
Step 2: Get Trade, Food Safety license and Organic Certification
Get an account in the business name in your preferred bank. The legal regulations to get the trade license for starting an organic retail store may vary from state to state. Bank Statement, PAN Card and Rental agreement of the store (or any other proof of the premises) are the important documents required to obtain a trade license.
FSSAI License: If you want to manufacture your own organic produce and sell in your organic store, then FSSAI license is crucial.
Is GST mandatory? GST (Goods and Service Tax) is mandatory only when your organic store business crosses the annual turnover limit of 20 lakhs.
Organic food certification:
The National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) implemented by the government.
India Organic certification is offered by the organic testing agents accredited by APEDA (the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority). India Organic label is a must for your own organic food production in order to get recognition as an organic product.
You can also sell organic products certified by Usda.
Step 3: Advertising and Promotion
It is important to create awareness about your business. You should not only advertise offline but also online to cover all grounds. Online marketing will be easier and will reach more people faster.
Why are We Talking about Organic Fruits and Vegetables?
COVID-19 has increased awareness of the impact the right kind of food has on their health. Organic foods are perceived to be healthier and safer than regular produce and so the demand for these are extremely high right now and it will continue to grow. Here are some probable reasons why this industry will continue to grow:
Growth of Internet
The increase in buying of smart phones coupled with low cost internet in India, almost everyone has access to information and are learning about the benefits of organic foods, at the same time internet has also made reaching people across the country easier ( so the target audience has no bounds)
Not Much of a Price Difference
Contrary to popular belief, organic produce isn’t that expensive. It is the middle-men that hike up the price for the “organic” branding. So with time the prices will come down and the demand will further increase.
Increase in Export
As the climate in India is agro-favorable and we have inherited organic farming, the quality of our produce is very high thus the demand for Indian Organic Food has not only increased in India but also aboard.
We guess these are reasons enough to get off your butts and start planning the business you have been thinking about, for so long.
We have tried to cover everything that you would need to get your business started, and if you need any help with promoting your business online, you know where to find us!
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