Working with brands that source sustainable raw materials on a large scale (Woolworths South Africa, NOMU and Nestle, to name a few), UTZ is a non-profit organisation working hard to secure our tea, coffee and cocoa supply now, and for generations to come.
UTZ certification is essentially an endorsement similar to the Fair Trade label, which communicates to consumers that UTZ labeled products follow strict ethical guidelines. With a traceability system in place to track UTZ products throughout the supply chain, and regular independent third party audits, the UTZ Code of Conduct is upheld every step of the way.
With notable success worldwide (more than a million farmers and workers benefit from the UTZ program in 36 countries), UTZ began the development of an added Rooibos code in 2009, in response to local demand.
A study was carried out by Sandra Kruger and Associates to provide a snapshot of the first three years of certification of participating farms, and highlighted a number of positive chain events locally, for our pilot farmers.
Greater awareness of their responsibility towards nature and the environment was cited as the most significant change in outlook since certification. Improved record keeping was seen to have an impact on the responsible use of pesticides. The requirements for record keeping on pesticide use in the UTZ code have meant that those farms that were not already part of the GLOBALGAP1 for citrus have implemented stricter policies and have a better overview of their Integrated Pest Management, which in turn has an impact on their environmental practices.
The processors who are part of the UTZ Rooibos program stated that being UTZ Certified has allowed them greater access to international markets, which has allowed for greater stability in securing demand. Subsequently, wages on UTZ certified farms have either met or closed the gap on the LW benchmark for Western Cape, with better living conditions perceived by farm workers, compared to national levels.
The implementation of improved health and safety was consistently mentioned by participating farmers. Whilst South Africa has advanced health and safety legislation it is clear that this is not always implemented for all. UTZ certification assisted in increasing awareness and maintaining or improving compliance to health and safety. Even more encouraging were the reports of increased training and access to broader health and safety issues, including regular health checks, and more accessible information on HIV and AIDS for farm workers.
With interest from retailers and industry growing; UTZ certified farmers are enjoying the progress with a shared vision for sustainability.
Now, more than ever, consumers are also asking where their food comes from, specifically wanting to source food products that do not harm the environment nor exploit the work force. UTZ’s standards ensure the credibility of sustainability claims, as well as access to the UTZ logo for identification – a label we’re about to see more on SA shelves, and even more in consumer baskets.
For more information visit the website: https://www.utz.org/
South African enquiries: Lisa Ryser, Country Representative at gro.deifitrecztu@resyr.asil
