Chobani announced last week that it launched a certification program for U.S. dairy farms and cooperatives. Done in partnership with Fair Trade USA, the certification is a first within the dairy industry.
Fair Trade Certification provides farm owners and cooperatives with an opportunity to receive a financial premium for their investments. The Fair Trade USA certified program for dairy comes at a pivotal time for dairy processors as concerns about worker wellbeing and animal welfare practices take center stage. According to an announcement, Fair Trade USA is collaborating with experts and organizations working in the dairy industry in order to develop an environmental component to this program which will address the unique challenges of the dairy industry.
“Fair trade is often associated with commodities like coffee, cocoa and textiles produced in the Global South, and not as known within agricultural and farming operations here in America,” said Paul Rice, CEO, Fair Trade USA. “We believe in bringing the benefits of fair trade to as many in the industry as possible to create impact. Today, that opportunity is in the U.S. dairy sector."
Chobani is releasing its Fair Trade Certified Greek yogurt versions for all 32oz, multi-serve tubs. The company plans to expand the certification to other products.
