Fair trade chocolate.
To obtain Fair Trade™ Certification in the United States or Canada, a company generally must meet certain standards set by Fairtrade Labeling Organizations International (FLO). TransFair USA and TransFair Canada are the North American labeling members of FLO International that issue the Fair Trade Certified™ mark. Outside of North America, 18 other countries have their own labeling members that certify products to FLO International guidelines.
Vanilla beans are one type of product that can be certified as fair trade.
Fair Trade labeling initiatives were first introduced in the late 1980s and FLO International was founded in 1997. Before then, the markets for Fair Trade products were small and little known. In order to raise consumer awareness and promote fair practices, product certification has become an attractive option for producers. Items labeled as fair trade products can be sold in major markets while still bearing a distinctive brand.
Fair trade sugar.
To obtain fair trade certification, a business or organization must generally meet certain standards set by FLO International. The company then typically applies for inspection and certification by FLO-CERT, an independent organization that was established when FLO International was dissolved in 2004. To demonstrate its commitment to fair trade policies, a company generally must demonstrate that it pays fair wages to their workers. and promotes decent working conditions. In addition, organizations must generally act democratically, allowing unrestricted trade between producers and buyers. Generally, environmentally sustainable production methods are also important, as are efforts to support community development.
Fair trade coffee and coffee beans.
The first step in obtaining Fair Trade Certification™ is to submit an application to FLO-CERT, after determining that the products fall within the scope of the certification system. FLO-CERT then audits the organization to ensure compliance with fair trade standards. During these audits, FLO-CERT representatives often meet with company representatives and review documents. They also analyze working conditions and production methods. FLO-CERT then evaluates the auditors’ reports and issues a certification decision. A company that receives a favorable decision notifies its labeling organization to obtain permission to use the Fair Trade Certified™ mark.
One can buy fair trade clothes.
FLO-CERT audits producers and marketers. Examples of some commonly certified products include coffee, tea, chocolate, vanilla, fresh fruit, rice, sugar, and flowers. A certification cycle, according to FLO-CERT, lasts one year. Companies are subject to renewal inspections to ensure their continued compliance with fair trade standards. Companies wishing to obtain Fair Trade Certification™ can contact FLO-CERT directly or request more information from the labeling authorities in their country.