The event once again brings together local producers and the university community to discuss locally sourced food, organic products, and sustainability.
The Organic Market at the Gandia campus of the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) held its second edition on November 9, continuing its commitment to creating a space to promote the sale of organic and locally sourced products. The initiative allows the university community to purchase fruits and vegetables directly from producers, thereby supporting local commerce and promoting a more sustainable diet.
As a new feature, this year’s event included an oil maceration workshop led by environmental education specialists from the Mancomunitat de La Safor. During the activity, participants learned how to make macerated oils using natural plants. As the specialists explained: “When dried plant leaves are added to olive, almond, or sunflower oil, the oil absorbs the plant’s natural properties, and after the maceration process, the oil can be applied to the skin to reap its natural benefits.”
The event also featured a visit from L’Arna de l’ullal, a beekeeping project in Grau de Gandia that showcased its model of beekeeping that respects the bees and the natural cycle of the hives: “We practice a form of beekeeping that is very respectful of the hive. We do not extract more honey than what constitutes their surplus, nor do we feed them other products or sugars to increase production. Our goal is to offer a quality product and, above all, to ensure that the bees are healthy.”
He was also present Horta El Forcall, an agricultural initiative from Potries that is partnering with the Gandia campus to organize this organic market. Its representative, Borja Montalvà, explained how the partnership came about: “This summer we had a surplus of potatoes and tomatoes and were looking for ways to sell our produce. We figured the university was right next door and that, perhaps, the students and faculty would be interested in buying locally grown fruits and vegetables. That’s why we’re here.”
