Newly-certified produce from the Americas added to Fair Trade foods list

18 Oct 2019 --- Leading certifier of fair trade products in North America Fair Trade USA reports significant growth in its produce category, evidenced by a 30 percent increase in produce sales volume in 2018. Growth in the produce category included the introduction of eight new Fair Trade Certified products. Joining more than 60 certified products, the newly-certified fruits and vegetables include lemons, limes and papayas from Mexico and mangos from Brazil. Brussels sprouts, artichokes, grapes and blueberries grown the US also enter the produce category.

“We continue to be encouraged by the brands and retailers that are dramatically increasing their support for farm workers through fair trade certification,” says Nathalie Marin-Gest, Head of Fresh Goods at Fair Trade USA. “They have realized that it’s more than just a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) move, it’s an important investment in their infrastructure and supply chains, further supporting farms in their efforts to retain and attract employees.”

Research has also shown that consumers are more likely to purchase products with a “Fair Trade” label given the increased awareness of the effects of climate change to the planet and a “warm glow of giving back.” 

The nonprofit organization works with brands and retailers of all sizes to support growers and farm workers on a global scale to comply with social, economic, environmental and safety standards. Its Fair Trade Certified seal on a product signifies that it was made according to rigorous fair trade standards that promote sustainable livelihoods and safe working conditions, protection of the environment and strong, transparent supply chains. 

Rather than creating dependency on aid, Fair Trade USA’s model empowers farmers, workers and fishermen to fight poverty and earn additional money to improve their communities. 

One example is US-based Greek yogurt company Chobani’s The Milk Matters program in collaboration with Fair Trade USA and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The holistic program was designed to support the economic, environmental and social impacts of milk production.

Edited by Anni Schleicher