David Michael Offers FairTrade Vanilla

03/07/06 David Michael & Co., a leader in the vanilla industry has announced yet another first for the company. Through a partnership with TransFair USA, a non-profit, independent Fair Trade certification agency, David Michael is providing its clients with what it claims is the first Fair Trade Certified(TM) pure vanilla in the U.S. Market.

Almost a decade ago, David Michael & Co. addressed the organic concerns of its clients by offering one of the first organic vanilla products on the market. Today, David Michael answers the call for social responsibility. Fair Trade ensures that farmers around the world use sustainable farming methods and are paid a fair price for their crops, which leads to thriving communities and a healthy environment. When market prices fall below the cost of production, farmers are still guaranteed the Fair Trade price.

Because of Fair Trade, family farmers gain direct access to international markets in which to sell their goods. But Fair Trade doesn't just benefit farmers, as there is a growing interest among consumers to make responsible purchases. In fact, Fair Trade Certified coffee is now the fastest growing segment of the specialty coffee market, and Fair Trade Certified Tea grew a record 187% in 2005.

David Michael will begin to offer its Fair Trade Certified vanilla immediately. However, due to a small number of certified growers, quantities are limited.