The 'Greensumer' trend, which focuses on environmental protection and sustainable consumption, is becoming mainstream among Korean consumers as global awareness of environmental pollution issues spreads.

With the spread of this trend, the place that is capturing the attention of Korean consumers is Estonia, a Nordic country. In Estonia, approximately 23% of farmland is used for organic farming, and forests cover 51% of the land. About 28% of the territory is designated as protected areas, maintaining clean nature, and it is one of the seven countries that meet the air quality standards of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Estonia's food industry is developed based on organic ingredients born from its pristine nature. The country is also a leading example of applying innovative technology in the food industry to protect the environment while producing high-quality products.

There is a reason why Estonia is fostering a sustainable food industry environment. At the national level, the impact of food production processes on the natural environment is closely examined. Estonian food and beverage companies are actively seeking solutions to overcome these issues by utilizing advanced food technology to devise new food production methods and develop alternative foods.

A notable example is Estonian food company 'Gelatex,' which has developed a scaffold for cultured meat production using potatoes to establish a sustainable meat production base. AIO, a company producing substitutes for animal fats and palm oil, is revolutionizing the food industry with 'yeast biomass,' providing healthier and more sustainable alternatives.

There are also examples of developing superfoods rich in nutrients based on innovative science and technology. Recently, Estonia developed a unique DNA testing method for honey, strengthening the traceability of honey. By analyzing the DNA of honey, it is possible to track where and how the honey was produced, ensuring product safety and enabling the production of higher-quality honey.

The discovery of the probiotic strain ME-3, which improves digestive function, was also first made in Estonia. Probiotic strain ME-3 is known to promote digestive health, strengthen the immune system, and enhance antioxidant function, offering many health benefits.

Estonia's Kadarbiku Kimchi, a fully fermented food, is gaining global attention. Produced through a fermentation process similar to Korean kimchi, this product is considered one of Estonia's top foods, containing various nutrients such as lactic acid bacteria, fiber, and vitamin C.

Meanwhile, Estonian food companies are continuously seeking to expand their connections with Korean consumers. Many Estonian companies have already entered the domestic market, and others are striving to establish their presence in the Korean market within this year.

For instance, Estonia's largest potato chip manufacturer 'Balsnack International Holding,' which exports products to over 50 countries worldwide, is already distributed in Korea by 'TRIDGE Co.' Additionally, products from Estonia's oldest brewery 'A. Le Coq,' which produces a wide range of products in the Baltic Sea region, including premium liquors and non-alcoholic beverages, have also entered the Korean market. Furthermore, 'EBM Group,' producing various types of plant-based oils with excellent infrastructure, and 'Nordmel,' producing the highest quality natural honey from Estonia's nature, can also be found domestically.

There are also companies scheduled to enter the Korean market by the end of this year. 'MULL° DRINKS,' a premium beverage manufacturer specializing in Estonian sparkling wine and non-alcoholic beverages, and 'Coffee Crystal,' which produces specialty instant coffee 'KOHE' with top-quality beans, are set to debut in Korea through 'TRIDGE Co.,' which distributes Balsnack. 'Revala,' an ice cream powder manufacturer suitable for both home use and large-scale production, is also expected to be launched domestically. Revala's products are expected to cater to various consumer tastes, including vegan and lactose-free options.

Moreover, many Estonian food companies are hoping to enter the domestic market, including 'Punch Club,' the top Nordic cocktail company with eye-catching packaging, excellent taste, and impressive awards; 'Karila,' which creates special flower designs with chocolate for a new experience; 'Rosena,' producing convenient and delicious collagen supplements; 'Haage,' a natural mineral water manufacturer highly rated by sommeliers and chefs; and 'Salvest,' which produces a variety of products such as pickles, fermented cabbage, soups, baby food, jams, and smoothies using ingredients grown in Estonia's clean nature.

More detailed information about Estonian companies can be found on the official Trade Estonia website.

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