The Irish supermarket group Superquinn has moved to overcome problems due to a lack of a regular supply of local organic produce by extending its farming interests.
The group has set aside a 140-acre holding in north Co Dublin for organic production in an effort to ensure its shoppers have access to a constant supply of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables.
The land in Ballyboughal will produce fruit, vegetables and some beef.
Recent food scares and health concerns have seen the demand for organic produce double over the past two years in the Republic. Superquinn already sells over 200 organic food products, but there have been difficulties in maintaining a constant and frequent supply of organic foods.
Mr Eamonn Quinn, deputy chairman of Superquinn, said they now hoped to guarantee consistency at a reasonable price.
"Having our own dedicated organic farm in north Co Dublin will give us locally-produced organic fruit and vegetables and reduce our dependence on imported produce."
The farm in Ballyboughal went in for organic conversion in September 2001, and has undergone two years of "cleansing".
Mr Shaun Doherty, from Donnelly Fruit and Veg, part of the Superquinn organic farm, said: "The land is probably the most premier agricultural land in the country. The quality is excellent. Drainage is perfect. It will be almost as good as virgin land when we start production."
He said prices could be kept down because in the past production was done by small farms who didn't have the capital for machinery. "We have the resources and Superquinn has the outlet for the product. You're taking on a risk that's why demand is slightly higher on premium," he said.
Climate is a limiting factor and Irish farms will not be able to produce some fruit. However Mr Doherty hopes the farm will produce vegetables such as cauliflower which are currently imported.
The Organic Trust is due to certify the land this year, and Mr Doherty is hoping to plant crops next spring. The farm has housing for 60 cattle and a glasshouse on one acre.
Superquinn will be seeking organic growers over the next year.