What does biodynamic farming entail, and how is DEMETER certification achieved?

Biodynamic agriculture is an organic farming and gardening concept based on the ancient understanding that all things in life are interconnected through nature.  In addition to standard organic farming practices, biodynamic agriculture follows numerous proactive holistic processes aimed at increasing the nutritional quality of the crop and protecting the balance of the ecosystem.  Biodynamic farmers and processing facilities undergo a comprehensive, lengthy and internationally standardized verification process in order to achieve DEMETER Certification, and are regularly monitored by the national chapters of the International DEMETER Association.

DEMETER is the official brandname for products that come from biodynamic agriculture and processing.  Only strictly controlled and contractually bound partners are permitted to use the Demeter seal on their products. DEMETER requirements exceed government-mandated regulations, and are the most respected certification organization worldwide.