“More and more often in our daily lives, we encounter people who do not trust ‘bio’ or ‘eco’ labels, yet blindly order food and cosmetics from Facebook producers and sellers, believing they are ‘bio’ and ‘eco.’ In the first case, however, the food is subject to institutional control and can be verified online through various websites and consumer reviews. In the second, you are simply trusting ‘word of mouth’.”
“What is the difference between ‘Organic’, ‘Bio’, and ‘Natural’?”
| Term | Meaning | Status |
| Organic (Bio) | Complies with strict EU regulations; has a certificate and the “green leaf” label. | Official |
| Ecological (Eco) | Often used as a synonym for “organic,” but can also refer to food produced with a focus on its carbon footprint. | Correct but generic |
| Natural | A misleading term. It may simply mean it contains no preservatives, but it does not guarantee the absence of pesticides. | Marketing |
Varna offers a well-developed network of specialized stores for organic and eco-friendly food, along with two regular farmers’ markets. Here is an overview based on online research, without claiming to be exhaustive:
Specialized Organic Stores:
- ZELEN Organic Store (27-mi Yuli St., No. 68): The store is located in the city center and offers an extensive selection of organic products — fresh organic fruits and vegetables, superfoods, gluten-free products, nuts, seeds, grains, natural cosmetics, and eco-friendly cleaning supplies.
- Balev Bio Market (75 General Kolev St.): An established chain with a national presence. Customers particularly praise the staff and the wide range of Demeter-certified products, seasonal fruits and vegetables, frozen berries, and supplements.
- KILERAT — Organic Store (54 Tsar Asen I St.): A store with a diverse selection of vegan foods, cheeses, flours, and handmade candies and chocolates.
- “Greet” Organic Store (Healthier) (16 Frederic Chopin St.): A small but very popular store offering vegan foods and dietary supplements. Highly rated by customers.
- BioBazar Market & Cafe (6 Druzhba St.): BioBazar offers a wide selection of organic foods, gluten-free products, dietary supplements, superfoods, and organic cosmetics, and also features an on-site café.
- Bio-Market/Health Store (Grand Mall Varna): Offers fresh natural food, dietary supplements, and sports products.
Farmers’ markets:
The farmers’ market takes place every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on the alley next to the parking lot of the Palace of Culture and Sports, and every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Shipka Street, Musala Square. It traditionally brings together local small-scale producers of clean, authentic Bulgarian foods—vegetables, fruits, dairy and meat products, as well as low-calorie and vegan desserts.
