Difference between revisions of "The Arctic Flavours Association (Finland)"

Description

Brief description of the instrument and its modus operandi

The Arctic Flavours Association is a nation-wide natural products industry association specialising in wild berries, mushrooms, herbs and special natural products. The aims of the Association are to promote the gathering, processing and use of natural products as well as to improve their quality. It produces services that support the development of the natural products industry for the benefit of companies, stake-holders in the industry and citizens, and makes natural products and the foods made from them a recognised part of a healthy diet in Finland and abroad.

Which problem the instrument is supposed to solve?

The gathering, processing and consumption of berries, mushrooms, herbs, etc. is much below the production possibilities of the Finnish forests. There was no organisation which would represent and support the natural products industry in Finland.

Purpose or main objective / overall goal of the instrument?

Compiling and disseminating information regarding natural products. Preparing and distributing educational material related to the field. Carrying out nation-wide campaigns to promote gathering and consumption of natural products. Improving the quality of the products and the raw materials involved. Organising and developing educational opportunities relating to the field. Monitoring domestic and international developments in the field. Supporting research efforts in the field and communicating the findings to companies in the industry. Organising and executing projects relating to the field. Pursuing initiatives aimed at improving operating conditions for the industry. Assisting its members in building networks and finding partners.

Innovation content or potential of the instrument?

To increase gathering, processing and consumption (e.g. business activities) related to berries, mushrooms, herbs, etc. To support and advocate the development of natural products industry.

The initiator/promoter of the instrument?

Private sector: Natural products companies (=the members of the association)

Which organizations are involved in the operationalization of the instrument?

The members of the association (natural products companies). There are eight companies from North Karelia (buying, processing and selling NWFPs).

How the monitoring is ensured?

No monitoring

How the compliance is ensured?

No enforcement.

How is the overall performance of the instrument?

No quantitative estimates on the benefits. The association has advocated the natural products industry in several ways (e.g. VAT issues, the marketing and commercial quality control of berries and mushrooms, published guides on berry and mushroom picking and treatment both in Finnish and foreign languages.

References

http://www.arctic-flavours.fi/

Have any of the items mentioned above changed since the instrument entered into force?

No

Is there any qualitative or quantitative study of the impacts of the instrument?