Suppliers of Organic Food: Evidence From Sisli And Kartal Ecological Bazaars Of Istanbul

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to determine the current state of affairs of organic product suppliers in two 100% ecological bazaars of Istanbul, Turkey. The data were collected by administering a questionnaire to 58 organic product suppliers in 100% ecological bazaars of Sissle and Karta. The results show that the organic farmers have a higher educational level and are younger as compared to the conventional farmers. The primary sources of information about organic farming are other farmers and fellows. Although farmers are satisfied with organic production, it is proposed that more consumers should be aware of the benefits of organic commodities. As local organic bazaars are one of the ways of introducing organic products to consumers, increasing the numbers of such bazaars will contribute both to consumers and producers.

Experts’ Points of View on Developing Local Organic Bazaars in Turkey

“…Earlier works of Ayan et al [1], Ayan et al [2], Boz and Rasulov [16], Boz and Kaynakçı [17] and Kilic and Eryilmaz [18], as well as official…”

“…Although every human being deserve to eat healthy food, there is no justice and fair trade in organic food markets, particularly in developing countries. While high income consumers can afford to buy and consume organic products, other segments of the population have difficulties even to taste these products [1,2]. Developed countries particularly in Europe and North America consist of about 90 percent of the sales of organic and fairtrade products.…”

“…The benefits of local organic bazaars include the following [7,1,8]: (a) Consumers receive reliable information, directly or in the shortest way, about the products and other related attributes. (b) Opens the road for the fair trade.…”

Is Organic Food a Sustainable Choice? Evaluating Organic Food Production in the Framework of Environmental Sustainability

“…Therefore, it is expected that consumers who have a higher tendency towards sustainable consumption tend to buy organic foods. Ayan et al (2017) also found that consumers think organic food is healthier than conventional alternatives. The study of Oraman & Unakıtan (2010) points out that concern for human health and safety are significant motivators of choosing organic food.…”

Problems and Solutions in Rice Production and Marketing in Takhar Province of Afghanistan

“…Althoug the Takhar province has suitable climatic and soil condition for rice production and the agricultural environment hasn't contaminated with chemicals and pesticides, sustainable organic rice cultivation couldn't be developed. Since most of the developing countries have similar potential for cultivating organic crops [17], [18], and developing organic bazaars for local consumers [19], the Takhar province should be utilize this opportunity which will help to increase rice selling prices.…”