Polish food stands out not only for its taste, but also for its high standards of quality and safety. “Polish cuisine is more than a tradition – it is also a dynamically developing agri-food industry that successfully competes in international markets. For years, it has also enjoyed growing popularity in Asia, among others. Polish products are appreciated in Vietnam, Korea or China – for their natural composition, exceptional tasting qualities and traditional recipes. This proves that Polish food can be our best showcase in the world” – Bożena Wróblewska, President of the Promotion Center of the Polish Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes.
Poland’s strength in export categories1
Poland is among the largest food producers in the European Union. In 2024, it ranked fifth among EU countries in terms of agri-food production value, accounting for about 8 percent of the EU market. Our country is the largest producer of apples and poultry in the Union, holds leading positions in dairy, cheese and milk production, and ranks high in pork, sweets and bakery products. It also holds a strong position in the export of vegetables – especially cabbage, carrots, onions and mushrooms – and soft fruits such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries, which in recent years have become increasingly recognized on world markets.
The year 2024 confirmed the strength of Polish food exports. The value of foreign sales of agri-food goods reached 53.5 billion euros, an increase of 2.7 percent compared to 2023. The share of food in Poland’s total exports rose to about 15 percent, making the sector one of the most important branches of the economy. Most goods went to the European Union market – as much as 71 percent of the total, or €36.4 billion. The largest recipients were Germany, where the value of exports amounted to 13.6 billion euros, as well as the Czech Republic and France. Among non-EU markets, the United Kingdom topped the list with €2.8 billion, followed by the United States and Ukraine. It is also worth noting the dynamic growth in sales to Turkey and Switzerland, which confirms the growing interest in Polish offerings outside the EU.
The most important export categories remain meat and meat products – with poultry dominating, as well as beef and traditional cured meats – as well as cereal and bakery products, dairy products, confectionery and candy. Fruits and vegetables are also increasingly important in the export structure. Poland has for years been a leader in the production of apples, which go both to the European Union countries and to distant markets in Asia and Africa. Sales of berries – especially blueberries, raspberries and strawberries – are growing dynamically, winning consumers in Western Europe and North America. Fresh and processed vegetables, including mushrooms, of which Poland is the largest exporter in the Union, also maintain a high position.
Quality certificates
Polish food is valued for its quality and natural origin, and this is confirmed by certification systems. The “Polish Product” symbol guarantees that the raw materials come from the country, while EU quality marks – Protected Designation of Origin, Protected Geographical Indication and Traditional Specialty Guaranteed – help distinguish such specialties as Old Polish jalowcowa sausage or Kurpiowski honey. An additional confirmation of quality is the “Poznaj Dobra Zywnosc” (Meet the Good Food) label, awarded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Polish Food Day, which falls on August 25, is a reminder that our products are not only part of tradition and daily diet, but also the engine of the economy. Polish food today is becoming synonymous with quality, diversity and innovation, and its importance in global trade is steadily growing, reinforcing Poland’s image as one of the most important food producers in Europe and the world.
Export dynamics: Polish food exports over the past 20 years have increased almost 10-fold
The increase in the value of Poland’s agri-food exports in the eight months of 2025 was due to the prevalence of upward price trends in the global food market and Poland’s maintenance of a strong position in supply chains supported by recovering consumer demand in the EU market. Poland’s food exports were constrained by the dynamic appreciation of the zloty against the U.S. dollar recorded in the first and second quarters of 2025, which caused exports to non-EU markets to show little y/y growth.
In the commodity structure of exports from Poland in January-August 2025, meat, meat preparations and livestock accounted for the largest share, accounting for 22% of the export value. Revenues from the sale of cereal grains and preparations occupied 11% in the value of exports, tobacco and tobacco products – 10%, sugar and confectionery products – 8%, dairy products – 7%, fish and preparations – 6%, vegetables (including mushrooms) and preparations – 5%, fruits (including nuts) and preparations – 4%. A smaller share was held by coffee, tea and cocoa (3%), oilseeds and vegetable fats (2%), fruit and vegetable juices (2%) and alcohols (2%)2.
Polish products are increasingly finding their way to foreign markets because they combine high quality with reasonable prices. Consumers pay attention to taste, simple composition, natural raw materials and attention to safety standards, so they feel they are buying something solid. Polish producers are seen as partners you can rely on, as they respond quickly to changes, introducing new flavors, convenient packaging formats and versions tailored to local expectations. At the same time, we are still able to maintain attractive price levels. This set of qualities is conducive to winning more contracts and builds growing interest in Polish food around the world.” – comments Łukasz Knapowski, Aksam’s Commercial Director.
EU exports
The largest export revenues to EU countries were obtained from the sale of: tobacco and tobacco products (EUR 3.1 billion, down 1% on the corresponding period of 2024.), poultry meat and offal (€2.7 billion, up 27%), dairy products (€2.0 billion, up 19%), beef and veal (€1.8 billion, up 44%), fish and processed foods (€1.8 billion, up 2%), chocolate and chocolate products (€1.5 billion, up 21.5%), and bread and bakery products (€1.5 billion, up 5%)*.
Non-EU countries
Agri-food products worth EUR 9.4 billion (PLN 40 billion) were exported to non-EU countries (so-called third countries) – 2% higher y/y. The share of countries located outside the European Union in the geographical structure of Polish agri-food exports was 25%.
The largest revenues were generated from Polish exports to non-EU countries: meat and non-poultry products (EUR 1.07 billion, up 6%), including beef and veal (EUR 342 million, down 2%), dairy products (EUR 744 million, up 3%), poultry meat and offal (EUR 712 million, down 3%), chocolate and chocolate products (€642 million, up 12%), bread and bakery products (€621 million, up 5%), tobacco and tobacco products (€607 million, up 9%), animal feed (€450 million, up 21%).
Recipients of agri-food goods exported from Poland to third countries, as in previous years, were primarily: UK (revenues of €2.9 billion, up 3%), Ukraine (€781 million, up 33%), USA (€544 million, up 11%) and Turkey (€345 million, up 3%)*.
Ecology of Polish food – a hot topic
After three years of the nationwide educational campaign “Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2,” the Polish Chamber of Organic Food is seeing an increase in confidence in certified organic food. The latest survey shows that consumers increasingly understand the principles of organic production, and positive associations with organic food are now 20 percentage points higher than in the previous edition of the measurement. At the same time, awareness of environmental benefits is growing, although still nearly half of those surveyed equate organic food with “healthy,” confirming the need for further education.
The Chamber has been running a campaign since 2022 to inform consumers about what organic food is and what the process of producing it entails. While it might seem simple to identify such products, education requires dispelling numerous myths and countering the so-called “eco-culture.” The campaign emphasizes that organic food is produced in accordance with EU and national regulations on organic agricultural production, without pesticides, artificial fertilizers, GMOs and with respect for biodiversity and environmental resources. Only products that meet these requirements can be labeled with the Eurolist symbol. PIŻE periodically surveys consumers’ knowledge of the virtues of organic production, recognition of the Eurolist and the level of trust in organic food.
In the current edition of the survey, 66 percent of respondents declare positive associations with the term “(certified) organic food,” including 44 percent rather positive and 22 percent definitely positive. Negative feelings associated with the term do not exceed a few percent of the responses given by respondents3.
Poles know more and more about organic food every year and are more willing to go for organic products, guided by, among other things, concern for the environment. This allows us to predict that domestic organic production will grow. And we have a lot of catching up to do, still lagging behind the leading EU countries in this regard. The average annual spending on organic food in the EU is about 100 euros per capita, while in Poland it is about 8 euros. “Although the difference between the prices of organic and conventional food has recently narrowed from 40-50 percent to about 20-30 percent, the greater expense associated with the purchase of organic products still remains a barrier for Poles,” says Krystyna Radkowska, president of the Polish Chamber of Organic Food, organizer of the campaign “Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2”.
“However, we hope that the increase in consumer awareness and purchasing power in the market will translate directly into the number of organic farms, and thus the expansion of the offer in specialized organic stores or on the shelves with organic food in chain stores. And we know that some customers want to buy comprehensively – from fresh fruits and vegetables to dairy and meats to preserves and snacks. I can’t help but mention other factors important for the development of organic farming, such as public support in the form of, among other things, EU subsidies, especially needed in the current situation of rising labor, energy and production costs.” – Krystyna Radkowska adds.
Polish dairy production tradition
The Polish tradition of dairy production is a value that is difficult to overestimate. For generations, many regions of the country have developed local ways of making cheese, butter or sour milk products, based on natural ingredients and experience passed down from farmer to farmer. This rich tradition, combining craftsmanship with modernity, is one of the pillars of consumer confidence today.
“The high quality of Polish dairy products is not a coincidence – it is the result of modern production technologies, strict phytosanitary and veterinary standards and a constant emphasis on innovation in processing. The Polish dairy sector invests in quality control at every stage of product development: from attention to animal welfare, to transparent milk collection rules, to advanced pasteurization or fermentation processes. The result is products that stand out for their freshness, natural composition and stable quality parameters,” informs Agnieszka Maliszewska, President of the Polish Milk Chamber.
The growing popularity of Polish dairy offerings on foreign markets is not surprising. Polish cheeses, UHT milks, butters or dairy powders are in demand both in EU and non-EU countries. Consumers appreciate their taste, quality and favorable price/value ratio. Dairy exports are thus becoming one of the more important pillars of the Polish food economy. The dairy sector itself is seeing the industry’s position in the national GDP grow. As Agnieszka Maliszewska points out, today more than 32 percent of our products are exported, the main recipients being EU markets (with Germany, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and Italy having the best share). But not only the EU is an important export destination. Our products also find their way to the world’s tables. From the UK, to Algeria, the US or Asian markets and the Far East.
The ecology and safety of Polish food is also crucial. The industry consistently implements environmentally friendly solutions – from reducing energy and water consumption to using packaging that can be easily recycled. Meanwhile, Poland’s surveillance and certification system ensures high hygienic standards, so that products reaching the market are fully safe, tested and meet the highest quality standards.
The Polish dairy industry has huge growth potential, evident in a wide range of product categories. The segment of ripened and regional cheeses is developing, yogurts and fermented beverages – valued for their health-promoting qualities – are recording dynamic growth. “The production of butter, cream and powdered milk, used in the food industry worldwide, is also growing steadily. Functional, high-protein products and those dedicated to active people are also strengthening their position,” concludes the President of the Polish Milk Chamber.
Meat industry – sustainable development, healthy lifestyle and safety
The Polish meat industry successfully combines rich tradition with modern requirements, which allows it to strengthen its position on the global market. Polish meat is recognized for, among other things, its high quality and taste, which is due to traditional breeding and processing methods. Producers are developing and constantly investing in technological innovations that increase productivity while maintaining high standards and, consequently, reproducible quality of products4.
As a member of the European Union, Poland must comply with EU regulations governing animal welfare. It complies with EU directives regulating standards for the treatment of farm animals, which include restrictions related to the housing, feeding and treatment of animals. For example, Council Directive (EU) No. 98/58/EC sets minimum standards for the protection of farm animals, and Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009 deals with the humane killing of animals.
It is also worth mentioning that there are already various certification systems in place that provide additional animal welfare guarantees, such as the “Welfare Quality” certificate. These are often voluntary certifications that set higher standards than the minimum legal requirements.
There are a number of measures in place to improve animal welfare in the meat industry, however, there are still areas for further progress and improvement, according to research.
Healthy food, ethical breeding and food safety – these are not empty slogans, but real determinants shaping Poles’ purchasing decisions. The results of a nationwide survey, commissioned by the Polish Meat Association and conducted by research firm Biostat, reveal the extent to which public awareness has changed shopping habits in Poland. Among the 1,000 respondents, men and women between the ages of 25 and over 65 from across the country, a trend for the better is becoming apparent – Poles not only want, but also choose meat from animals treated with proper care.
Adherence to animal welfare in the meat industry in Poland is a topic that has been growing in importance among both producers and consumers in recent years. Consumer awareness in Poland is growing, with more and more people paying attention to animal husbandry conditions. This is leading to greater demand for responsibly sourced products, which may in turn motivate producers to improve standards.
Food safety labeling on meat products in Poland should meet the stringent requirements of European Union law and national regulations. Already, meat product labels must clearly indicate the origin of the meat, the best-before date or the date of minimum durability. This is important food safety information for consumers. Labels must also include information on the presence of allergens, which is important for people with food allergies, as well as the full composition of the product, including additives such as preservatives, colors or flavor enhancers. Instructions on storage and preparation of the product are essential to ensure its proper use and maintain quality.
The meat industry in Poland strives not only to comply with these regulations, but also to implement new technologies and practices that increase transparency and product safety. For example, systems are being put in place that make it possible to quickly trace the origin of meat products at all stages of production and distribution, which is particularly important when potential health risks are detected. In addition, the industry is increasingly using modern packaging techniques that can prolong the freshness of products and reduce the risk of contamination. All of this contributes to raising food safety standards and ensures greater consumer confidence, which the survey shows is crucial to purchasing decisions.
Food safety remains unwavering in its role as a top priority. Nearly half of the survey participants (47.5%) constantly monitor information on this topic on meat product packaging. Food safety labeling (60.2%), non-GMO (56.8%) and controlled production process (49.6%) are among the most frequently indicated criteria.
The most important element on food packaging – according to 78.2% of respondents – is its composition. This indicates a growing need for transparency and authenticity of products consumed by Poles. In addition, nutritional information and the origin of the product are also high on the list, for 42.7% and 52.5% of respondents, respectively.
Guarantees of GMO-free and antibiotic-free animal food are a deciding factor for 53.4% of respondents. Thus, consumers express a preference for breeding practices that are compatible with sustainability and healthy living.
Sweets – a carrier of Polish tradition in the world
Classic recipes and innovations do not have to be mutually exclusive. Tasty and simple in composition Polish sweets are proof of this. Our native sweets have their faithful recipients all over the world. Consumers appreciate them for their taste, tradition, ecology or wide choice in particular categories. Both classic products are valued, but also following trends and responding to them with a diverse range of flavors.
According to forecasts, from 2024 to 2029, the value of the global chocolate confectionery market will increase by 19.9%. This demonstrates the category’s solid foundation, despite global economic challenges.
The U.S., the U.K. and Germany are the three key markets that dominate global chocolate candy sales and control the largest share, confirming a pattern of concentration in developed Western economies.
Chocolate bars remain the strongest product category globally, indicating the continuing role of traditional formats in the structure of chocolate candy consumption.
“The high quality of Polish products is due to the skillful combination of long-standing traditions, respect for natural raw materials and modern technologies. Polish companies focus on reliable recipes, transparency of processes and control at every stage of production, which builds trust among global consumers. Foreign consumers are increasingly choosing Polish brands because they associate them with authenticity, careful craftsmanship and distinctive taste. This combination of tradition, innovation and responsible approach allows Polish products to successfully compete in the most demanding markets.” – comments Iwona Łagodzińska, CEO of Terravita.
Vegetable and fruit facts
Is there anyone in Europe who doesn’t know Polish apples? Probably not. Poland is a powerhouse in exports, ranking at the top of the EU in terms of production and exports of apples, blueberries, raspberries and cherries, among others. Exports of fruits and vegetables are not only millions of tons of goods sent abroad, but above all the stability of Polish farms.
Our country’s favorable climatic and soil conditions or tradition of cultivation for the production of various kinds of fruit, which allows us to meet the needs of both domestic and foreign markets. Polish fruit exports mainly include apples, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, black currants and blueberries. Each of these fruits finds buyers in various foreign markets, both in the European Union and around the world. It is also impossible not to mention vegetable and fruit preparations, such as juices, jams and frozen foods, which are popular, not least because of their clean label without “unnecessary” additives or enhancers.
Among the most popular November species, Kantar Poland lists apples, pears, plums and blueberries. Compared to November 2024, their consumption increased significantly. The apple is the most noteworthy – once again in the monthly survey – with more than a million new consumers. Apples were the most consumed fruit in November 2025, consumed by 90% of Poles. In second place were pears, consumed by half of Poles (51%). Third place in November, belongs to plums (46%). The next species mentioned were blueberries (35%), raspberries (30%), strawberries (23%) and cranberries (21%). For the first time, declarations of consumption of processed blueberry products were also surveyed. The result – 4.8 million (15%).
November was another month of significant growth in the number of consumers – apple – once again – 1.2 million to be exact (November’25 vs. November’24).
Polish superfruits
Functional food is indicated as a new strategic direction and opportunity for Polish agriculture and processing. The sought-after raw material for its production is berries. “In Poland we have favorable conditions for growing these species. It is a temperate warm transitional climate, which is characterized by large amplitudes of annual and daily temperatures. It is warm during the day and quite cold at night, which affects the taste – the balance of sugars accumulated during the day and the acidity retained at night. This is why, for example, Polish blueberries are considered exceptionally tasty. The fruits are intensely colored and rich in polyphenols. An outstanding example is chokeberry, which, thanks to the presence of anthocyanins (50-60%), is the richest source of antioxidants. Thanks to these remarkable properties, scientists refer to berries as superfruits. Many of their species – sea buckthorn, chokeberry, Polish minikiwi or kamchatka berry, currants, blackberries, raspberries or blueberries – are becoming a valuable raw material for the production of functional foods. A whole new functional food segment has already been created on the basis of the aforementioned chokeberry,” comments Paweł Eggert, a member of the Berry Core Team in Poland.
Polish food is not only about taste, it is also about identity, quality, authenticity or emotions. And often these values can be more valuable than promotion or advertising alone. Export activities are characterized not only by the sale of goods, they are also a kind of experience that stays in the consumer’s memory definitely for longer.
Monika Górka
Editor
1 source: the Promotion Center of the National Chamber of Commerce
2 source: the NEB
*Krajowy Ośrodek Wsparcia Rolnictwa
*Krajowy Ośrodek Wsparcia Rolnictwa
3 source: A survey commissioned by the Polish Chamber of Organic Food as part of the „Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2” campaign, conducted by the Delta Partner Association for Supporting Economic Initiatives in July 2025 using the CAWI technique on a representative sample of Poles (1,074) between the ages of 18 and 64. The aim of the survey was to find out respondents’ attitudes toward organic products.
**source: kups.org.pl
4 source: Polish Meat Association
*source: KOWR
Poland’s strength in export categories1
Poland is among the largest food producers in the European Union. In 2024, it ranked fifth among EU countries in terms of agri-food production value, accounting for about 8 percent of the EU market. Our country is the largest producer of apples and poultry in the Union, holds leading positions in dairy, cheese and milk production, and ranks high in pork, sweets and bakery products. It also holds a strong position in the export of vegetables – especially cabbage, carrots, onions and mushrooms – and soft fruits such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries, which in recent years have become increasingly recognized on world markets.
The year 2024 confirmed the strength of Polish food exports. The value of foreign sales of agri-food goods reached 53.5 billion euros, an increase of 2.7 percent compared to 2023. The share of food in Poland’s total exports rose to about 15 percent, making the sector one of the most important branches of the economy. Most goods went to the European Union market – as much as 71 percent of the total, or €36.4 billion. The largest recipients were Germany, where the value of exports amounted to 13.6 billion euros, as well as the Czech Republic and France. Among non-EU markets, the United Kingdom topped the list with €2.8 billion, followed by the United States and Ukraine. It is also worth noting the dynamic growth in sales to Turkey and Switzerland, which confirms the growing interest in Polish offerings outside the EU.
The most important export categories remain meat and meat products – with poultry dominating, as well as beef and traditional cured meats – as well as cereal and bakery products, dairy products, confectionery and candy. Fruits and vegetables are also increasingly important in the export structure. Poland has for years been a leader in the production of apples, which go both to the European Union countries and to distant markets in Asia and Africa. Sales of berries – especially blueberries, raspberries and strawberries – are growing dynamically, winning consumers in Western Europe and North America. Fresh and processed vegetables, including mushrooms, of which Poland is the largest exporter in the Union, also maintain a high position.
Quality certificates
Polish food is valued for its quality and natural origin, and this is confirmed by certification systems. The “Polish Product” symbol guarantees that the raw materials come from the country, while EU quality marks – Protected Designation of Origin, Protected Geographical Indication and Traditional Specialty Guaranteed – help distinguish such specialties as Old Polish jalowcowa sausage or Kurpiowski honey. An additional confirmation of quality is the “Poznaj Dobra Zywnosc” (Meet the Good Food) label, awarded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Polish Food Day, which falls on August 25, is a reminder that our products are not only part of tradition and daily diet, but also the engine of the economy. Polish food today is becoming synonymous with quality, diversity and innovation, and its importance in global trade is steadily growing, reinforcing Poland’s image as one of the most important food producers in Europe and the world.
Export dynamics: Polish food exports over the past 20 years have increased almost 10-fold
The increase in the value of Poland’s agri-food exports in the eight months of 2025 was due to the prevalence of upward price trends in the global food market and Poland’s maintenance of a strong position in supply chains supported by recovering consumer demand in the EU market. Poland’s food exports were constrained by the dynamic appreciation of the zloty against the U.S. dollar recorded in the first and second quarters of 2025, which caused exports to non-EU markets to show little y/y growth.
In the commodity structure of exports from Poland in January-August 2025, meat, meat preparations and livestock accounted for the largest share, accounting for 22% of the export value. Revenues from the sale of cereal grains and preparations occupied 11% in the value of exports, tobacco and tobacco products – 10%, sugar and confectionery products – 8%, dairy products – 7%, fish and preparations – 6%, vegetables (including mushrooms) and preparations – 5%, fruits (including nuts) and preparations – 4%. A smaller share was held by coffee, tea and cocoa (3%), oilseeds and vegetable fats (2%), fruit and vegetable juices (2%) and alcohols (2%)2.
Polish products are increasingly finding their way to foreign markets because they combine high quality with reasonable prices. Consumers pay attention to taste, simple composition, natural raw materials and attention to safety standards, so they feel they are buying something solid. Polish producers are seen as partners you can rely on, as they respond quickly to changes, introducing new flavors, convenient packaging formats and versions tailored to local expectations. At the same time, we are still able to maintain attractive price levels. This set of qualities is conducive to winning more contracts and builds growing interest in Polish food around the world.” – comments Łukasz Knapowski, Aksam’s Commercial Director.
EU exports
The largest export revenues to EU countries were obtained from the sale of: tobacco and tobacco products (EUR 3.1 billion, down 1% on the corresponding period of 2024.), poultry meat and offal (€2.7 billion, up 27%), dairy products (€2.0 billion, up 19%), beef and veal (€1.8 billion, up 44%), fish and processed foods (€1.8 billion, up 2%), chocolate and chocolate products (€1.5 billion, up 21.5%), and bread and bakery products (€1.5 billion, up 5%)*.
Non-EU countries
Agri-food products worth EUR 9.4 billion (PLN 40 billion) were exported to non-EU countries (so-called third countries) – 2% higher y/y. The share of countries located outside the European Union in the geographical structure of Polish agri-food exports was 25%.
The largest revenues were generated from Polish exports to non-EU countries: meat and non-poultry products (EUR 1.07 billion, up 6%), including beef and veal (EUR 342 million, down 2%), dairy products (EUR 744 million, up 3%), poultry meat and offal (EUR 712 million, down 3%), chocolate and chocolate products (€642 million, up 12%), bread and bakery products (€621 million, up 5%), tobacco and tobacco products (€607 million, up 9%), animal feed (€450 million, up 21%).
Recipients of agri-food goods exported from Poland to third countries, as in previous years, were primarily: UK (revenues of €2.9 billion, up 3%), Ukraine (€781 million, up 33%), USA (€544 million, up 11%) and Turkey (€345 million, up 3%)*.
Ecology of Polish food – a hot topic
After three years of the nationwide educational campaign “Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2,” the Polish Chamber of Organic Food is seeing an increase in confidence in certified organic food. The latest survey shows that consumers increasingly understand the principles of organic production, and positive associations with organic food are now 20 percentage points higher than in the previous edition of the measurement. At the same time, awareness of environmental benefits is growing, although still nearly half of those surveyed equate organic food with “healthy,” confirming the need for further education.
The Chamber has been running a campaign since 2022 to inform consumers about what organic food is and what the process of producing it entails. While it might seem simple to identify such products, education requires dispelling numerous myths and countering the so-called “eco-culture.” The campaign emphasizes that organic food is produced in accordance with EU and national regulations on organic agricultural production, without pesticides, artificial fertilizers, GMOs and with respect for biodiversity and environmental resources. Only products that meet these requirements can be labeled with the Eurolist symbol. PIŻE periodically surveys consumers’ knowledge of the virtues of organic production, recognition of the Eurolist and the level of trust in organic food.
In the current edition of the survey, 66 percent of respondents declare positive associations with the term “(certified) organic food,” including 44 percent rather positive and 22 percent definitely positive. Negative feelings associated with the term do not exceed a few percent of the responses given by respondents3.
Poles know more and more about organic food every year and are more willing to go for organic products, guided by, among other things, concern for the environment. This allows us to predict that domestic organic production will grow. And we have a lot of catching up to do, still lagging behind the leading EU countries in this regard. The average annual spending on organic food in the EU is about 100 euros per capita, while in Poland it is about 8 euros. “Although the difference between the prices of organic and conventional food has recently narrowed from 40-50 percent to about 20-30 percent, the greater expense associated with the purchase of organic products still remains a barrier for Poles,” says Krystyna Radkowska, president of the Polish Chamber of Organic Food, organizer of the campaign “Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2”.
“However, we hope that the increase in consumer awareness and purchasing power in the market will translate directly into the number of organic farms, and thus the expansion of the offer in specialized organic stores or on the shelves with organic food in chain stores. And we know that some customers want to buy comprehensively – from fresh fruits and vegetables to dairy and meats to preserves and snacks. I can’t help but mention other factors important for the development of organic farming, such as public support in the form of, among other things, EU subsidies, especially needed in the current situation of rising labor, energy and production costs.” – Krystyna Radkowska adds.
Polish dairy production tradition
The Polish tradition of dairy production is a value that is difficult to overestimate. For generations, many regions of the country have developed local ways of making cheese, butter or sour milk products, based on natural ingredients and experience passed down from farmer to farmer. This rich tradition, combining craftsmanship with modernity, is one of the pillars of consumer confidence today.
“The high quality of Polish dairy products is not a coincidence – it is the result of modern production technologies, strict phytosanitary and veterinary standards and a constant emphasis on innovation in processing. The Polish dairy sector invests in quality control at every stage of product development: from attention to animal welfare, to transparent milk collection rules, to advanced pasteurization or fermentation processes. The result is products that stand out for their freshness, natural composition and stable quality parameters,” informs Agnieszka Maliszewska, President of the Polish Milk Chamber.
The growing popularity of Polish dairy offerings on foreign markets is not surprising. Polish cheeses, UHT milks, butters or dairy powders are in demand both in EU and non-EU countries. Consumers appreciate their taste, quality and favorable price/value ratio. Dairy exports are thus becoming one of the more important pillars of the Polish food economy. The dairy sector itself is seeing the industry’s position in the national GDP grow. As Agnieszka Maliszewska points out, today more than 32 percent of our products are exported, the main recipients being EU markets (with Germany, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and Italy having the best share). But not only the EU is an important export destination. Our products also find their way to the world’s tables. From the UK, to Algeria, the US or Asian markets and the Far East.
The ecology and safety of Polish food is also crucial. The industry consistently implements environmentally friendly solutions – from reducing energy and water consumption to using packaging that can be easily recycled. Meanwhile, Poland’s surveillance and certification system ensures high hygienic standards, so that products reaching the market are fully safe, tested and meet the highest quality standards.
The Polish dairy industry has huge growth potential, evident in a wide range of product categories. The segment of ripened and regional cheeses is developing, yogurts and fermented beverages – valued for their health-promoting qualities – are recording dynamic growth. “The production of butter, cream and powdered milk, used in the food industry worldwide, is also growing steadily. Functional, high-protein products and those dedicated to active people are also strengthening their position,” concludes the President of the Polish Milk Chamber.
Meat industry – sustainable development, healthy lifestyle and safety
The Polish meat industry successfully combines rich tradition with modern requirements, which allows it to strengthen its position on the global market. Polish meat is recognized for, among other things, its high quality and taste, which is due to traditional breeding and processing methods. Producers are developing and constantly investing in technological innovations that increase productivity while maintaining high standards and, consequently, reproducible quality of products4.
As a member of the European Union, Poland must comply with EU regulations governing animal welfare. It complies with EU directives regulating standards for the treatment of farm animals, which include restrictions related to the housing, feeding and treatment of animals. For example, Council Directive (EU) No. 98/58/EC sets minimum standards for the protection of farm animals, and Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009 deals with the humane killing of animals.
It is also worth mentioning that there are already various certification systems in place that provide additional animal welfare guarantees, such as the “Welfare Quality” certificate. These are often voluntary certifications that set higher standards than the minimum legal requirements.
There are a number of measures in place to improve animal welfare in the meat industry, however, there are still areas for further progress and improvement, according to research.
Healthy food, ethical breeding and food safety – these are not empty slogans, but real determinants shaping Poles’ purchasing decisions. The results of a nationwide survey, commissioned by the Polish Meat Association and conducted by research firm Biostat, reveal the extent to which public awareness has changed shopping habits in Poland. Among the 1,000 respondents, men and women between the ages of 25 and over 65 from across the country, a trend for the better is becoming apparent – Poles not only want, but also choose meat from animals treated with proper care.
Adherence to animal welfare in the meat industry in Poland is a topic that has been growing in importance among both producers and consumers in recent years. Consumer awareness in Poland is growing, with more and more people paying attention to animal husbandry conditions. This is leading to greater demand for responsibly sourced products, which may in turn motivate producers to improve standards.
Food safety labeling on meat products in Poland should meet the stringent requirements of European Union law and national regulations. Already, meat product labels must clearly indicate the origin of the meat, the best-before date or the date of minimum durability. This is important food safety information for consumers. Labels must also include information on the presence of allergens, which is important for people with food allergies, as well as the full composition of the product, including additives such as preservatives, colors or flavor enhancers. Instructions on storage and preparation of the product are essential to ensure its proper use and maintain quality.
The meat industry in Poland strives not only to comply with these regulations, but also to implement new technologies and practices that increase transparency and product safety. For example, systems are being put in place that make it possible to quickly trace the origin of meat products at all stages of production and distribution, which is particularly important when potential health risks are detected. In addition, the industry is increasingly using modern packaging techniques that can prolong the freshness of products and reduce the risk of contamination. All of this contributes to raising food safety standards and ensures greater consumer confidence, which the survey shows is crucial to purchasing decisions.
Food safety remains unwavering in its role as a top priority. Nearly half of the survey participants (47.5%) constantly monitor information on this topic on meat product packaging. Food safety labeling (60.2%), non-GMO (56.8%) and controlled production process (49.6%) are among the most frequently indicated criteria.
The most important element on food packaging – according to 78.2% of respondents – is its composition. This indicates a growing need for transparency and authenticity of products consumed by Poles. In addition, nutritional information and the origin of the product are also high on the list, for 42.7% and 52.5% of respondents, respectively.
Guarantees of GMO-free and antibiotic-free animal food are a deciding factor for 53.4% of respondents. Thus, consumers express a preference for breeding practices that are compatible with sustainability and healthy living.
Sweets – a carrier of Polish tradition in the world
Classic recipes and innovations do not have to be mutually exclusive. Tasty and simple in composition Polish sweets are proof of this. Our native sweets have their faithful recipients all over the world. Consumers appreciate them for their taste, tradition, ecology or wide choice in particular categories. Both classic products are valued, but also following trends and responding to them with a diverse range of flavors.
According to forecasts, from 2024 to 2029, the value of the global chocolate confectionery market will increase by 19.9%. This demonstrates the category’s solid foundation, despite global economic challenges.
The U.S., the U.K. and Germany are the three key markets that dominate global chocolate candy sales and control the largest share, confirming a pattern of concentration in developed Western economies.
Chocolate bars remain the strongest product category globally, indicating the continuing role of traditional formats in the structure of chocolate candy consumption.
“The high quality of Polish products is due to the skillful combination of long-standing traditions, respect for natural raw materials and modern technologies. Polish companies focus on reliable recipes, transparency of processes and control at every stage of production, which builds trust among global consumers. Foreign consumers are increasingly choosing Polish brands because they associate them with authenticity, careful craftsmanship and distinctive taste. This combination of tradition, innovation and responsible approach allows Polish products to successfully compete in the most demanding markets.” – comments Iwona Łagodzińska, CEO of Terravita.
Vegetable and fruit facts
Is there anyone in Europe who doesn’t know Polish apples? Probably not. Poland is a powerhouse in exports, ranking at the top of the EU in terms of production and exports of apples, blueberries, raspberries and cherries, among others. Exports of fruits and vegetables are not only millions of tons of goods sent abroad, but above all the stability of Polish farms.
Our country’s favorable climatic and soil conditions or tradition of cultivation for the production of various kinds of fruit, which allows us to meet the needs of both domestic and foreign markets. Polish fruit exports mainly include apples, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, black currants and blueberries. Each of these fruits finds buyers in various foreign markets, both in the European Union and around the world. It is also impossible not to mention vegetable and fruit preparations, such as juices, jams and frozen foods, which are popular, not least because of their clean label without “unnecessary” additives or enhancers.
- Poland is counted among the world’s largest exporters of fresh apples and concentrated apple juice. 20-30% of domestic production of these fruits and up to 85% of the concentrated apple juice produced is directed to export.
- Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and currants – Poland is one of the world’s leaders in berry production. Their taste and freshness go to many EU countries and beyond.
- Ground vegetables – carrots, onions, cabbage, tomatoes – production exceeds 5 million tons per year, and some go to almost all of Europe.
- Mushrooms – 239,000 tons of fresh mushrooms and 80,000 tons of processed mushrooms were exported in the 2022/2023 season*.
Among the most popular November species, Kantar Poland lists apples, pears, plums and blueberries. Compared to November 2024, their consumption increased significantly. The apple is the most noteworthy – once again in the monthly survey – with more than a million new consumers. Apples were the most consumed fruit in November 2025, consumed by 90% of Poles. In second place were pears, consumed by half of Poles (51%). Third place in November, belongs to plums (46%). The next species mentioned were blueberries (35%), raspberries (30%), strawberries (23%) and cranberries (21%). For the first time, declarations of consumption of processed blueberry products were also surveyed. The result – 4.8 million (15%).
November was another month of significant growth in the number of consumers – apple – once again – 1.2 million to be exact (November’25 vs. November’24).
Polish superfruits
Functional food is indicated as a new strategic direction and opportunity for Polish agriculture and processing. The sought-after raw material for its production is berries. “In Poland we have favorable conditions for growing these species. It is a temperate warm transitional climate, which is characterized by large amplitudes of annual and daily temperatures. It is warm during the day and quite cold at night, which affects the taste – the balance of sugars accumulated during the day and the acidity retained at night. This is why, for example, Polish blueberries are considered exceptionally tasty. The fruits are intensely colored and rich in polyphenols. An outstanding example is chokeberry, which, thanks to the presence of anthocyanins (50-60%), is the richest source of antioxidants. Thanks to these remarkable properties, scientists refer to berries as superfruits. Many of their species – sea buckthorn, chokeberry, Polish minikiwi or kamchatka berry, currants, blackberries, raspberries or blueberries – are becoming a valuable raw material for the production of functional foods. A whole new functional food segment has already been created on the basis of the aforementioned chokeberry,” comments Paweł Eggert, a member of the Berry Core Team in Poland.
Polish food is not only about taste, it is also about identity, quality, authenticity or emotions. And often these values can be more valuable than promotion or advertising alone. Export activities are characterized not only by the sale of goods, they are also a kind of experience that stays in the consumer’s memory definitely for longer.
Monika Górka
Editor
1 source: the Promotion Center of the National Chamber of Commerce
2 source: the NEB
*Krajowy Ośrodek Wsparcia Rolnictwa
*Krajowy Ośrodek Wsparcia Rolnictwa
3 source: A survey commissioned by the Polish Chamber of Organic Food as part of the „Switch to eco – look for Eurolist 2” campaign, conducted by the Delta Partner Association for Supporting Economic Initiatives in July 2025 using the CAWI technique on a representative sample of Poles (1,074) between the ages of 18 and 64. The aim of the survey was to find out respondents’ attitudes toward organic products.
**source: kups.org.pl
4 source: Polish Meat Association
*source: KOWR
