Biodynamic lifestyle on a bee farm
We believe the land can heal by biodynamic farming.
Hikiän is the first and only Demeter certified Finnish biodynamic honey producer. What is Demeter, and what does biodynamic really mean?
Demeter is the brand for products from biodynamic agriculture. Only strictly controlled and contractually bound partners are permitted to use the brand. A comprehensive verification process ensures strict compliance with the International Demeter Biodynamic Standard, as well as applicable organic regulations in the various countries. Biodynamic agriculture is based on sustainable use of natural resources. It emphasizes the importance of a self-sufficient and distinctive farm complex. Biodynamic farm forms its own ecosystem, which in turn increases the diversity of rural nature and includes not only lands but also crops, livestock, people and nature around the whole area.
In biodynamic cultivation the aim is to leave the land for future generations more vivid and fertile than it has itself been obtained. The cultivation method is the oldest of the trends in organic farming. The principles and values of biodynamic cultivation fit very well with Hikiän values. We don’t want the traditional and sustainable beekeeping methods to change. It is important that we have pollinators for the coming generations, we are dependent on them.
Beekeeping certification is an independent section in the rules of Demeter production.
To receive and remain the certification we have to demonstrate annually the sufficient suitability for biodynamic production and the quality requirements for honey in accordance with the Demeter standards are fulfilled.
Keeping the colony strong is the most important goal for us as Demeter beekeepers. The regulations and standards are extensive and the inspection of the farm and entire honey production chain for certification is very precise and detailed.
We cannot assume that bees collect nectar only from biodynamic areas. In Demeter honey production the hive maintenance is more important, and especially the fact how close they get to the colony’s natural life cycle. The basic premise of biodynamic honey production is that bees are allowed to be and live in peace and let them build the essential part of the hive, the honeycomb, completely freely. Also, hives are not waxed in advance. In this matter biodynamic production differs from for example organic production.
Our Values
Integrity to us is being honest with ourselves and our clients, as well as strong moral principles in all our activities. We respect and harness nature as it is and lean strongly to sustainability in everything we do.
Growth means we believe in continual personal growth. It is not only learning new things and knowledge, but also unlearning from old habits and limits. It is improving, achieving goals and succeeding.
Gratefulness comes when we focus on a positive mindset and choose to be grateful every day, and for every good thing that comes our way. We show gratitude to nature by caring and doing our best to make it good for our bees to live.
Joy is comprehensive. The true joy of life is in the journey we take. We are going to make the most of it and we strive to make it visible in everything we do. We want our clients and partners to enjoy the journey as much as we do.
Our mission
We produce the cleanest and highest quality bee products for the world.
On our behalf we ensure that the reduction in the number of pollinators will end in the territory we operate.
We will do our utmost to preserve the diversity of forests, increase the existence of arable soil and the availability of clean water.
We constantly innovate, vision, and create new ways to add value to our clients and partners.
UN Sustainable goals for us
Good Health and Well-being
This goal is made to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
For us this means nurturing our bees’ health in every possible way for them to be able to make the purest and the most nutritious honey.
Also, honey as a product is fostering health because it contains for example antioxidants which prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Clean Water and Sanitation
This goal is made to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Animals, and in our case the honey bees need water as much as people. Bees use it for example to feed larvae and to melt the honey in the winter for feeding.
It is also important for us to take care of the territory we operate. Honey production does not cause any load on waterways.
Responsible Consumption and Production
This sustainable development goal is made to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
For us it means especially encouraging our customers to consume resposibly.
We also share knowledge to our clients, stakeholders and partners about responsible consuming and honey production.
Climate Action
This goal is made for people to take that urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
One way for us at Hikiän is to contribute to the combat by producing our honey climate friendly way.
We also share knowledge to our clients, stakeholders and partners how they can act environmentally friendly and take care of the climate at the same time.
Life on Land
This goal is made to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reserve land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
Our mission is to ensure on our behalf that the reduction in the number of pollinators will end in the territory we operate and spread the knowledge of the importance of biodiversity and biodynamic beekeeping and farming. We will also do our utmost to preserve the diversity of forests, increase the existence of arable soil and the availability of clean water.