West Pak Avocado of Murrieta, California recently received the Fairtrade Mark, one of the most highly recognized and trusted ethical labels in the world. Offered by Fairtrade America, this independent sustainability certification features a predominate Fairtrade logo. If a business meets all of the organization’s rigorous standards, they are permitted to use the Fairtrade Mark on their products to let buyers know that they are ethically sourcing from Fairtrade farms.
Businesses work with Fairtrade America to make sure that their supply chains are helping, not harming, farmers. While farming is the largest employer and source of income in the world, millions of people still suffer from unequal pay, the effects of a changing climate, gender inequality, and a lack of opportunity to seek an education. The standards also ban child labor and protect workers’ rights.
Leadership at the Murrieta, California based grower, packer, and distributor of premium avocados decided that it was time to step up to the plate and help set a standard in the avocado market.
With the implementation of the Fairtrade certification, West Pak CEO Mario Pacheco said, “West Pak has met all of the organization’s rigorous standards and is therefore now sourcing and marketing Fairtrade avocados. For us, as a company, this is an important step – it demonstrates that we are truly dedicated to enabling farmers and workers so they have more control of their lives and can decide how to invest in their own futures.”
About Fairtrade America
Fairtrade America is the United States arm of the leading international Fairtrade certification system. Fairtrade is the largest and most recognized fair trade system with more than 30 international offices. The nonprofit works with businesses to help them certify their products as ethically sourced from farmers and workers who get a fair deal. The team educates shoppers about the lack of fairness in many supply chains and the ethical brands available in the United States. For more information, please visit http://www.fairtradeamerica.org/.
