I.Schroeder KG at BIOFACH 2025: behind the scenes of organic tomato sourcing

BIOFACH, the world’s most important trade fair for organic food and a central meeting point for the international organic sector, draws the key players every year. This February I.Schroeder KG was again represented at the fair in Nuremberg, to exchange ideas with partners, discuss new developments and present approaches to the growing challenges in organic food sourcing.

One central topic: the sourcing of organic tomato paste. Global markets are under pressure and climate change is increasingly affecting harvests. How can a stable supply still be secured?At BIOFACH we spoke with Lars Bründel, Senior Sales & Procurement Manager at I.Schroeder KG. In the interview he explains why organic tomato paste presents a particular challenge and what role strategic partnerships, above all with the US company Morning Star, play in securing raw material supply.

The challenge of sourcing organic tomatoes

Organic tomato paste is a product that is becoming harder to obtain, because of its complex supply chain and the effects of climate change. Lars Bründel, Senior Sales & Procurement Manager at I.Schroeder KG, explains: “Sourcing organic tomato concentrate is demanding, because only a few markets can grow the raw material and also process it. And those markets are increasingly exposed to the effects of global climate change.”

Put briefly: a reliable supply now depends on a global approach. In times of crop failure in particular, it is important to find alternative sources to meet demand for this high-quality organic product.

Morning Star as a strategic partner

One decisive step towards stabilising supply is the partnership with the US company Morning Star. As one of the largest producers of tomato products worldwide, the company represents a reliable source of organic tomato paste. Lars Bründel points out: “The advantage of working with Morning Star is obvious. Access to raw materials of this kind is limited, and Morning Star is a clear alternative. Their production methods are remarkably efficient and yields per hectare in the USA are considerably higher than in other countries.”

This efficiency and these higher yields allow Morning Star to offer competitive prices and to secure consistent quality, and not only for the US market but for Europe as well.

BIOFACH: the ideal meeting point for the sector

Our tip: a visit to BIOFACH is worthwhile for more than presenting your own products. The fair offers an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues from the sector and to discover the latest trends and developments. Lars Bründel stresses: “It is always good to walk around the fair. You meet new people, you discover new raw material suppliers and you find new products. Networking is essential here.”

For I.Schroeder KG the fair is therefore not only a place to present, but also a valuable opportunity to talk with existing and potential partners and to introduce our own products and solutions.

A look at the future of organic tomato paste sourcing

One thing is clear: the challenges in sourcing organic tomato paste should not be underestimated, but with a considered global approach and strong partnerships such as the one with Morning Star, I.Schroeder KG is well placed to secure the supply of high-quality organic tomato paste even in difficult times. Lars Bründel sums it up: “The USA is one of the largest production markets for organic tomato paste and therefore of enormous importance for stable sourcing. The efficiency and inventiveness of Morning Star play a key role in that.”

For anyone who would like to know more about the products of I.Schroeder KG, whether organic tomato paste or other organic foods, there are many ways to get in touch. Lars Bründel recommends the classic route: “The only real contact is the personal one. Anyone interested in our products can call us at any time or arrange a meeting in person.”