Nestlé can secure 100% sustainable cocoa by end of 2015
The global food giant announced the news today (August 1). By working with UTZ Certified and Fairtrade Foundation, more than 60% of cocoa Nestlé UK & Ireland buys already comes from certified farms working with the Nestlé Cocoa Plan.
This year alone, certified cocoa would be sourced for famous brands such as Quality Street, Toffee Crisp, Munchies Blue Riband, and Breakaway, it said.
In 2013, Nestlé UK and Ireland bought certified cocoa for Smarties, Yorkie and Aero. Kit Kat 4 and 2 Finger became certified in 2010 and 2012 respectively.
‘Landmark goal’
“Nestlé UK & Ireland is set to be the first to reach this landmark goal, making a real difference to farmers and their communities,” said Andrew McIver, confectionery md, Nestlé UK & Ireland.
“For Quality Street, Nestlé has started purchasing certified cocoa and these products will be on the shelves in time for Christmas this year. This means we are on track to reach 100% by the end of 2015.”
UTZ certification is awarded to farmers who have been trained to grow better crops, generate more income and create opportunities whilst safeguarding the environment and natural resources.
Monitored by independent third parties, the farms and businesses involved must ensure sound agricultural practices, safe and healthy working conditions and must not use child labour.
