Issue 19

Worm farming is environmentally friendly and can help reduce reliance upon chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

As demand from health-conscious consumers grows, so does the need for organic food and products. New Friend Farm realises that today’s consumers seek products that help them feel healthier.

Established in 2010 by Sathaporn and Natita Chayaopars, the company produces organic earthworm faeces or castings and worm products under the Nong Duen brand. It also embraces the King's philosophy of Sufficient Economy.

“We have implemented the philosophy of Sufficient Economy by sustaining business growth,” says Natita Chayaopars. “We take one step at a time and expand in accordance with market demand. The business started through an interest in worm castings and the benefits of natural and chemical-free fertilisers. Plenty of research has been done on worm castings. They are richer in nutrients than most gardening soil and are environmentally friendly. We have refrained from using chemical fertilisers and are committed to constantly improve our products.”

New Friend Farm shares its knowledge about breeding worms with other worm casting manufacturers. “We provide information to those who are interested and they can develop their own formulas,” says Natita. “Currently there are many competitors, however, we want to urge manufacturers to seek opportunities in new markets and expand the market share for organic fertilisers. This way, we could help with reduction in the import of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.”

She believes that the formation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) will bring with it both advantages and challenges for business. “We export to neighbouring countries, including Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia,” she says. “The advantage is that these countries do not use chemical fertilisers, especially Laos, where the import of chemical products is limited and thus gives us an opportunity to expand our customer base. However, the risk is if they are able to produce organic fertilisers, their manufacturing cost will be much lower.”

Natita claims that most of their customers keep coming back. “We offer worm breeding kits to those who are interested. The kit contains breeder 0.5 kg of worm, which will increase fivefold in three months. Worms are easy to look after and all you have to do is feed them with leftovers. By doing so, we can help with garbage reduction and global warming.”

For more information, visit www.nongdeun.com

Words by: Manisa Phromsiripranee/ Pafun Pinthong