The Warmia region is one of the most beautiful areas of Poland, where agricultural production takes place among forests and countless lakes. In addition to well-developed tourism, there are large farms established after the State Agricultural Farms as well as medium and small individual farms. Many of the latter are now too small to make a living from their production.
The cleanest regions of Poland are conducive to the development of organic production, so it is not surprising that many of the small farms have found not only a way of making a living in organic production, but also a way of life. Most of the farms selling their products as part of the Warmiński Koszyk (Warmian Basket) started their organic production many years earlier. There were various reasons: health reasons for family members, the closure of dairies. A return to nature and healthy food inspired the introduction of long-forgotten but healthy crops such as flatbread, spelt, semolina, old varieties of rye, barley and buckwheat, which have not been ‘improved’ by man.
In 2022, 5 farmers previously operating independently decided to set up a joint sales platform using EU subsidies, which was not only intended to be another sales tool, but a way to combine products from several farms that could be sent to the customer in one basket. Despite the advent of this possibility, most customers still buy from one farmer who has their favourite products, which they do not want to swap for any other. Nevertheless, the proportion of parcels containing products from two or more farms is gradually increasing.
The baskets with the purchased products can be collected at the selected farm or are sent by courier service. Shipping of fresh produce (breads, cheeses) is carried out once a fortnight on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and orders placed by the end of Sunday are guaranteed to be delivered in that period. However, farmers point out that because they live and work according to the rhythms of nature, the products are available for sale from the moment they are harvested or processed until stocks run out.
Furthermore, as they are primarily farmers, there may be slight delays in processing orders during periods of rush of field work, especially in spring and late summer, as they take care to get the field work done first, so that there is something to ship later.
SUCCESS FACTORS
Direct selling: By selling directly to consumers, farmers can retain the full value of their products, eliminating intermediary margins and ensuring fairer compensation for their work. This direct connection between producer and consumer not only supports local agriculture but also fosters trust and transparency in food sourcing. Customers can learn more about farming practices, seasonal availability, and the unique characteristics of each product, strengthening their connection to the land and the people who cultivate it.
Commitment to quality: The high quality of products available through Warmiński Koszyk is a result of both organic farming methods and a dedication to preserving old plant varieties and traditional recipes. These time-tested techniques ensure that food is not only free from artificial additives and chemical residues but also rich in authentic flavours and nutrients. By maintaining traditional processing methods, such as natural fermentation for bread or artisanal cheesemaking, farmers ensure that customers receive food with superior taste and health benefits.
Local production and cooperation: All participating farms are located within a few kilometres of each other, creating a close-knit community of producers who share resources, knowledge, and logistics. This local focus reduces transport emissions, ensures fresher products, and strengthens regional food systems. Customers benefit from a diverse selection of farm-fresh goods, knowing they are supporting small-scale producers in their area.
Environmental responsibility: Sustainability is at the core of the Warmian Basket initiative. Organic farming practices prioritise soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance, making them one of the most environmentally friendly methods of food production. In addition to sustainable cultivation, great care is taken to minimise packaging waste. Farmers prioritise plastic-free packaging, using biodegradable or reusable materials whenever possible. When plastic is necessary, only recycled materials are used to reduce environmental impact.
Nutrient-rich and traditional foods: The products offered are not only organic but also include rare and long-forgotten crops with significant health benefits. Traditional grains such as flatbread, spelt, semolina, and heritage varieties of rye and barley have not been genetically modified or subjected to modern industrial processing, preserving their original nutrient profiles. Many consumers have reported notable health improvements after incorporating these foods into their diets, including better digestion, reduced allergies, faster recovery from illnesses, and overall well-being. By reintroducing these ancient crops, farmers are not only reviving agricultural heritage but also promoting healthier dietary choices.