Psyche Organic: Revolutionizing Olive Oil with Sustainability and Community

In an inspiring shift from the art and publishing scene of New York City to sustainable agriculture in Copenhagen, Theophilos—founder of Psyche Organic—is redefining the olive oil industry through community focus, transparency, and eco-conscious practices.

From Art Publisher to Sustainable Olive Oil Producer

After more than a decade in independent publishing and community arts projects, Theo embraced a life-changing opportunity in 2020. Drawn by the philosophy of Japanese natural farming pioneer Masanobu Fukuoka, he traveled to Greece, apprenticed with an organic olive farmer, and brought that authentic, non-chemical cultivation process to Denmark. Psyche Organic sources olives from resilient trees over 50 to 100 years old, harvested by hand, cold-pressed without chemical use, and delivered fresh from the mill.

Close Involvement and Ethical Farming

Theo remains deeply hands-on, traveling to Greece every season to oversee the harvest and pressing, ensuring quality control and maintaining close ties with farmers. Psyche Organic takes pride in its fully organic farming practices free of pesticides, which supports healthier ecosystems and produces superior olive oil.

Building an Inclusive Community in Copenhagen

Operating from a showroom-office in Copenhagen, Psyche Organic is about more than olive oil—it’s about creating a welcoming, inclusive health and wellness community spanning all races, genders, and identities. Previously experimenting with a pop-up cafe next to a Michelin-starred restaurant, Psyche Organic continues to engage customers via events and collaborations that promote education and transparency on supply chains.

Unique Market Position and Innovations

Standing apart from its competition, Psyche Organic is the only olive oil brand utilizing eco-friendly bag packaging, combining function with fashion-inspired aesthetics. Theo applies his extensive background in design, photography, and creative direction to position the brand as a trendsetter that speaks to diverse, modern consumers.

Expanding Reach Beyond Denmark

Psyche Organic is already present in major US cities like New York and Los Angeles through partnerships with Scarr’s Pizza and Homesick Studios. Future plans include growth into the wider Scandinavian market, northern Europe, and Asia, balancing scale with integrity.

Vision for the Future: Transparency and Giving Back

Theo’s ultimate vision is to overhaul the “corrupt” olive oil industry by offering transparent supply chains and authentic products that deliver true quality and health benefits. Inspired by Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard’s ethical business principles, he aims to build a sustainable enterprise empowering communities financially. Long-term, he plans to retire from daily operations and establish an off-grid farm and art residency to blend food cultivation with creative expression.

Overcoming Challenges: Letting Go and Starting Anew

Transitioning from a beloved New York identity tied to arts and cultural credibility to becoming a sustainable food entrepreneur in Europe meant confronting ego and attachment. Embracing change, Theo redefined his purpose to focus on meaningful impact through agriculture and community building.

Psyche Organic exemplifies how dedication to sustainability, transparency, and inclusivity can revitalise a traditional industry. By merging conscious farming practices with creative community engagement, the brand is not just selling olive oil—it’s cultivating a movement toward a healthier, more connected future.

Source: Interview with Theophilos by Olivia Roper-Caldbeck, Office Magazine, March 17, 2023

Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.