Expanding sustainability goals at Kraft

Posted on 26 May 2011, 21:02

Coffee, the second largest traded commodity on earth second only to oil, is the core business of many countries. More than 25 million people make a living from the coffee industry. As one of the largest buyers of coffee and cocoa in the world, Kraft Foods has a huge influence on the industry. Therefore, Fairfood is happy to announce that Kraft has taken a positive step toward sustainability.

Recently Kraft committed to source 100% sustainably sourced coffee beans for its European brands by 2015, as a member of the 4C Association. Within the 4C Association, producers, trade & industry and civil society from around the world work together for more sustainability in the entire coffee sector. This global community has joined forces to continuously improve the social, environmental and economic conditions for the people making their living with coffee.

While Fairfood applauds Kraft Foods’ commitment to sustainable coffee sourcing, we look forward to continuing our active dialogue with Kraft to ensure that the committments made are truly significant and that they are implemented in a productive and timely manner. For instance, we’re interesting in finding out a bit more about how continuous improvement is measured at Kraft.

Although Fairfood has not yet officially approved the 4C programme as a sufficiently sustainable solution, overall, we recognise the commitment from Kraft Foods as a significant step toward sustainability. As Fairfood has been in talks with Kraft for an extended period of time, we are optimistic about this development, and we look forward to continuing to diligently follow-up with and engage in constructive dialogue with Kraft as they implement the stated commitment!

For more information on Kraft Foods’ commitment to sustainable coffee farming take a look at their website.

Irma van den Berg is a copywriter for Fairfood International, Coen Warmer is manager of the Website at Fairfood International.

Photography: Joe Lencioni (CC license)