Candy giant Ferrero has released its latest annual cocoa charter progress report, claiming that the company has made significant progress in “responsible procurement of cocoa”.
The company stated that its cocoa charter is established around four key pillars: sustainable livelihoods, human rights and social practices, environmental protection, and supplier transparency.
A key achievement of Ferrero in the 2021-22 agricultural year was to provide one-on-one farm and business planning guidance to approximately 64000 farmers, and to provide support for a personal long-term farm development plan for 40000 farmers.
The report also reveals a sustained high level of traceability from the farm to the point of purchase. Ferrero polygon drawn over a map of 182000 farmers and a deforestation risk assessment of 470000 hectares of agricultural land were conducted to ensure that cocoa does not come from protected areas.
Marco Gon ç a Ives, Chief Procurement and Hazelnut Officer of Ferrero, stated, “Our goal is to become a true public welfare force in the cocoa industry, ensuring that production creates value for everyone. We are very proud of the results achieved so far and will continue to advocate for best practices in responsible procurement.”
supplier
In addition to the progress report, Ferrero also disclosed the annual list of cocoa grower groups and suppliers as part of his commitment to transparency in the cocoa supply chain. The company stated that its goal is to purchase all cocoa from specialized farmer groups through a fully traceable supply chain at the farm level. During the 21/22 crop season, about 70% of Ferrero’s cocoa purchases were from cocoa beans processed by the company itself. Plants and their use in products such as Nutella.
The beans purchased by Ferrero are physically traceable, also known as “quarantined,” which means the company can track these beans from farm to factory. Ferrero also stated that he will continue to maintain long-term relationships with farmers’ groups through his direct suppliers.
About 85% of Ferrero’s total cocoa comes from specialized farmers’ groups supported by the Cocoa Charter. Among these groups, 80% have worked in the Ferrero supply chain for three years or more, and 15% have worked in the Ferrero supply chain for six years or more.
The company claims that as part of the Cocoa Charter, it continues to expand its efforts towards sustainable development of cocoa, “aimed at improving the livelihoods of farmers and communities, protecting children’s rights, and protecting the environment.”
Post time: Aug-09-2023
