"Recycling is a key criterion in the choice of packaging."
El Granero is an organic brand belonging to the Biogran group, a leading Spanish company in the organic food sector. Among its more than 400 products, its cereals, flours, seeds, cakes, and nutritional supplements are particularly noteworthy.
El Granero Integral was founded in 1982, when there was hardly any awareness of the importance of organic food. To what extent have the habits of Spanish consumers changed?
From our beginnings to today, the change has been profound. Spanish consumers are increasingly aware of the direct relationship between food, health, and sustainability. Today, there is greater concern about the origin of food, the quality of ingredients, environmental impact, and long-term well-being. Organic food has become part of the purchasing habits of an ever-growing public.
It's a Biogran brand, which is part of Ecotone. How does being part of a leading group in its sector benefit them?
Being part of Biogran and the Ecotone group allows us to combine knowledge, innovation, and development capabilities without losing our core values. It provides us with stability, an international perspective, and the resources to continue advancing in sustainability, quality, and continuous improvement, always maintaining our commitment to organic and responsible food.
Why is it necessary to improve nutrition? plant based And what about organic farming?
The reality is that it's a response to many of the current challenges we face: people's health, environmental protection, and respect for natural cycles. Food plant based Organic farming contributes to reducing environmental impact and promotes a more balanced and sustainable food system. Therefore, in addition to our commitment to organic farming, we are also committed to protecting biodiversity.
They have over 500 products. What are their best-selling items?
The breakfast cereals El Granero Integral, the plant-based drinks Ecocesta and Isola, the Cupper teas and infusions and magnesium citrate within the food supplements category.
They are all available in herbal shops and eco-stores. Through what other channels are they distributed?
In addition to the specialized channel, the Ecocesta brand and the rest of the group's brands are sold in the mass consumer market, as well as through the channel e-commerce and OOH.
What certifications do you have and why do you think they are important?
We hold IFS Food and organic certifications at our factories in Madrid and Toledo, Fair Trade certification for our tea and infusion line, FSC-certified cardboard, and B Corp certification for environmental and CSR practices. For us, product quality and respect for the environment and people are the foundation of Biogran.
How do they decide what type of packaging their products should have?
The packaging is chosen with product protection and minimal environmental impact in mind. We always strive for a balance between food safety and sustainability.
El the packaging Recycling is a project we've been working on for years at Ecotone. The tea and infusion line is plastic free and without staples, and the plant-based beverage containers are made with 88% recycled paper. The boxes are made of recycled cardboard and are FSC certified. The biggest challenge remains flexible plastic packaging.
What materials are they made of?
The tea bags are made with recycled paper and cardboard. We use flexible, single-material packaging, specifically polypropylene, for our pancake line and will soon be using it for our breakfast cereal lines as well.
Do they take recycling into account?
Yes, recycling is a key criterion in our choice of packaging. We work to ensure it is easily recyclable and to provide consumers with clear information on how to dispose of it correctly. Furthermore, European regulations mandate that all food packaging be recyclable by 2030.
How do they promote reuse?
We promote packaging that can have a second life at home and are committed to reducing formats, designed for responsible consumption, reducing waste and encouraging more conscious use.
What sustainability criteria apply at the production level?
We prioritize organic raw materials, sourced domestically or from Europe, responsible suppliers, efficient processes, and respect for natural cycles and biodiversity. All of this is aimed at minimizing environmental impact and guaranteeing products of the highest quality.
How do you see the future of organic food? Will it continue to grow?
We firmly believe it will continue to grow. Organic food is no longer a passing trend, but a structural shift in consumption patterns. More and more people are seeking healthy, sustainable, and transparent options.
What are your future goals?
Our goals include continuing to expand our product range, continuously improving our processes, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability, and bringing organic food closer to a growing number of consumers, always maintaining the quality and values that define us.
