From the Biovega archive. An edited, abridged translation of a post from the former website, retaining its original publication date. Information refers to that period.
In July 2022, Zrno director David Pejić was named a finalist for the European Union’s best organic farmer award. He was the only Croatian representative among the finalists in that selection. The European Commission launched the EU Organic Awards that year to recognise excellence and innovation in organic production.
At the time, Zrno Organic Estate in the municipality of Dubrava grew around 60 different crops on 22 hectares with a team of 39 employees. Its development connected organic farming with vegetable processing, natural fermentation, baking and ready-to-eat food production. The estate’s production principles also extended to Zrno Bio Bistro in Zagreb.
Innovation and the local community
Highlighted projects included the biointensive no-till garden, a growing system without soil tillage. Zrno’s development also focused on energy self-sufficiency, research, education, and connecting production with hospitality through a farm-to-table approach.
Speaking about the nomination, David Pejić emphasised Zrno’s ambition to demonstrate and explain the importance of organic farming. Representatives of Zagreb County and the municipality of Dubrava also expressed their support, highlighting knowledge sharing, employment and rural development.
This post records the finalist announcement in July 2022, before the award winners were announced that September. Figures for land, employees and production refer to the time of the original publication.