Control Union – demeter

Demeter

Demeter is the international quality mark for biodynamic agriculture and food, established in 1924. It is designed for farmers, processors, and traders committed to holistic and regenerative practices. Control Union provides independent assessment services to support organisations in achieving Demeter certification, enabling them to meet stringent customer requirements for quality and sustainability.

Control Union – demeter

    What is Demeter?

    Demeter represents a modern, future-oriented approach to agriculture that goes significantly beyond organic standards. Where organic principles focus on omitting synthetic aids, the vision for Demeter is to actively strengthen the life forces within crops and animals. This is achieved through the principles of biodynamic agriculture, which treats the farm as a single, living organism.

    This system is built on circularity, aiming for a self-sustaining operation with minimal external inputs. Certification demonstrates a commitment to these high standards, which are increasingly demanded by consumers.

    Why choose Control Union as your certification partner?

    • Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.

    • We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.

    • Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.

    Features of Demeter

    Control Union – demeter
    1.

    Beyond organic standards

    A holistic vision that surpasses conventional organic rules by focusing on strengthening the life force of the farm.

    2.

    Commitment to circularity

    Based on the principle of the farm as a self-sustaining organism, with minimal need for external inputs.

    3.

    Proven environmental benefits

    Research shows the biodynamic method has a positive impact on soil health, climate resilience, and nutritional value

    4.

    International quality mark

    A globally recognised standard for biodynamic agriculture with a heritage dating back to 1924.

    5.

    Holistic agricultural approach

    Focuses on the interconnectedness of soil, plants, and animals to produce high-quality, vibrant food products.

    Control Union – agri
    In a constantly changing environment, we are working with supply chain partners to create a demonstrably more sustainable future.
    Vincent van Tol – Control Union Certifications

    This is how certification with Control Union works

    In outline, we go through these 6 steps. We’ll tell you all about it at the start of the project.

    Applying for certification

    Apply by using the contact details at the bottom of this page

    Determining scope of certification

    Together, we discuss the details and scope of your application. Which processes, products and/or locations would you like to have certified?

    Quotation & contract

    After establishing exact scopes and auditing times, you’ll receive our quote.

    After agreement, you may start the preparation phase.

    Audit planning, preparation, execution and reporting

    You will be assigned one of our qualified and independent auditors. We’ll reach out to you to check if you’re ready for the initial audit. If needed, we’ll provide additional information to help to prepare.

    Good to go? The initial audit is planned, carried out and reported.

    Review

    During the audit, we will assess if you meet the requirements. After that, we will confirm if you’ve fully complied, if there are things to improve, or if there are any non-conformities.

    Together, we will discuss our findings, plan of action and planning in case of non-conformities. In case your chosen program includes a logo, we will discuss this too.

    Receiving your certificate

    If all non-conformities are resolved and everything has been assessed positively, the certification decision follows.

    Depending on the type of certification:
    • you are allowed to trade using the certificate
    • you are executing the process according to the guidelines
    • you are allowed to name the certificate on your website
    Some certificates allow you to use the certificate’s logo. We will provide you with guidelines for this.

    The certification process does not end here, annual audits ensure consistent quality!

    Global coverage, local knowledge

    Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions. As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications? Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    Offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Proud colleagues
    Control Union – Agri, Horticulture & Organic

    Request Demeter or discuss without obligation?

    We are ready to assist. Contact us using the form below or call us on +31 38 42 60 107

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    Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away.

    Independent tailor-made services

    What makes you unique, we make demonstrable

    Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.

    Read more about our customised solutions
    Control Union - supply chain