At the recent V International Conference “Digitalization of Agriculture and Organic Production (ADOP 2025)” held at Altai State Agrarian University, participants visited an organic farm in the Biysky District of Altai Krai. The farm, operated by Kurai Agro Plus and its partner Stepnoy LLC, demonstrated how organic farming can be both productive and sustainable—without synthetic fertilizers or chemicals.
Organic Crop Production: High Yields Without Chemicals
The farm showcased fields of wheat and buckwheat grown using strictly organic methods. Of particular interest was the locally bred wheat variety “Sprintér,” which impressed Dr. Alexandra Figurek from the University of Nicosia (Cyprus). She noted that the wheat sprouts in Altai were far more robust than those in Cyprus, despite the latter’s two harvests per year.
“I specialize in organic wheat sprout cultivation for wheatgrass juice—a popular health drink in Europe. But here, the sprouts are much stronger, thanks to Altai’s fertile soil,” Dr. Figurek remarked.
Wheatgrass juice is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it a sought-after superfood. The success of Sprintér wheat highlights the potential of organic farming in nutrient-dense crop production.
Research and Innovation in Organic Farming
Scientists from Altai State Agrarian University, including:
- Olga Cherepanova (Ph.D., Associate Professor),
- Valentina Kundius (Dr. of Economics, Professor),
- Vladimir Chernyshkov (Ph.D., Department Head),
have been collaborating with Stepnoy LLC to improve organic field crop cultivation techniques. Their work supports the broader adoption of sustainable farming practices in Russia.
From Field to Market: A Complete Organic Supply Chain
The conference delegation also visited Kurai Agro Plus’s processing facility in Borovoy and its organic product store “Lastochka” in Biysk. This vertical integration—from cultivation to retail—ensures high-quality organic products reach consumers efficiently.
“This visit allowed participants to see the best practices in Russian organic farming and discuss the industry’s future,” said Andrey Ronzhin, co-chair of the ADOP 2025 organizing committee.
The Future of Organic Farming is Bright
The Altai region proves that organic farming can be both sustainable and profitable. With fertile soils, innovative research, and strong market demand for organic products, Russia is positioning itself as a key player in global organic agriculture.
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