In the production process of these products, the amount, frequency and time of use of mineral fertilizers, pesticides, medicines are limited, and the requirements for raising poultry without antibiotics are implemented. When growing plants, only the minimum of fertilizers necessary for full vegetation is used, calculated based on the results of soil testing and nutrient balances. Synthetic food additives (preservatives, sweeteners, aroma and flavour enhancers, dyes) are not used in the processing of such products. These products are fresher because they are presented to the consumer within a shorter period than usual for products of that category.” (Pagal nacionalinę maisto kokybės sistemą pagaminti produktai, 2025). The green NQL mark - “National Quality Lithuania” designates certified, higher-than-normal quality food products that meet the basic requirements of the NQL specification, while the red “Quality” mark designates NQL’s that meet not only the basic, but also additional, even higher quality, environmental or animal welfare requirements set out separately in each specification (Nacionalinė maisto kokybės sistema, 2025). Organic farming also has a significant impact on food safety and quality. Organic agricultural production is the production of products that are grown in accordance with natural systems and cycles, maintaining and improving the condition of soil, water, air and biodiversity, plant and animal health, as well as the balance between them. When raising animals, high standards of animal welfare are met, by meeting the behavioural needs specific to the animal species. In the processing of such products, natural or naturally derived materials are used (Žemės ūkio ir maisto produktų kokybės politikos įgyvendinimas, 2025). From January 1, 2022, Regulation (EU) No. 2018/848 of the European Parliament and of the Council, which establishes the principles and rules of organic production, has come into force in Lithuania, as well as throughout the European Union. Among the national legal acts, the Organic Production Rules approved by Order No. 375 of the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania of 28 December 2000 should be distinguished. These rules regulate the requirements for organic production activities at all stages of production, preparation and distribution, as well as official control of organic production and other official activities. These rules apply to operators carrying out organic production activities. The control of the implementation of these rules is carried out, within their competence, by: the control authority - Public Enterprise “Ekoagros”, the State Food and Veterinary Service, competent authorities - the Ministry of Agriculture and the State Plant Service under the Ministry of Agriculture (Dėl 668 JOLANTA VILKEVIČIŪTĖ
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