Rico Farms, a longtime supporter of social accountability programs and advocate for worker empowerment, has certified its first farming operation with Equitable Food Initiative (EFI). Currently Rico Farms' main operation, Agricola Sonorg, located near Hermosillo, Mexico, has received its certificate with the Agricola Tago operation moving closer to certification. Rico Farms grows organic winter and summer squash, cucumbers, eggplant, chili peppers, green beans and watermelon. While they have held a social compliance certificate since 2013, the transition to EFI was a natural next step in their development and dedication to continuous improvement.
"The Equitable Food Initiative program stands out for its unique approach of intertwining worker engagement with food safety. When workers and management collaborate as a team, all stakeholders feel valued and respected and consequently engaged and responsible. The program's emphasis on continuing education, open feedback, and best management practices creates a healthy work environment and a robust culture of food safety. An engaged workforce and a culture of food safety are fundamental elements of a successful company," says Ben Johnson, president of Bridges Produce who is the exclusive sales agent for Rico Farms.
In-field training.
Jacobo Yanes, Operations Director for Rico Farms spoke regarding the importance of developing social programs, "Our philosophy at Rico Farms has always focused on improving people's lives. Most of our employees return every season and we are very committed to them, this is just one way we show this commitment." EFI is a way for Rico Farms to continue to grow an already well-developed and supported social program.
As for the decision to transition to EFI, the holistic approach, focus on food safety and employee empowerment were key factors in the decision. "We think that the consistent training by the EFI leadership team will help to develop an even more committed and skilled team and help all Rico Farms employees. Providing those tools will result in a stronger company to work for as well as benefiting our customer base," commented Jacobo Yanes.
"The EFI trainers were highly impressed by the Rico Farms team's open and transparent approach in identifying and addressing issues in the field and packhouse to meet EFI standards. While it sounds simple, it's not an easy task, so we applaud their efforts and know continued commitment to that approach is key to the success of the EFI certification process," shared LeAnne Ruzzamenti, director of marketing and communications for EFI.
Proudly showing EFI certificates.
Another reason both Bridges and Rico Farms found the EFI certificate so attractive is that EFI "seek(s) to be a catalyst in the fresh produce industry". – EFI's "exclusive focus on fresh produce means the EFI team is familiar with the challenges and variances found in produce. The lack of packaging for bulk product, seasonal fluctuations and weight and size variances can be a challenge when quantifying volumes and reporting on premiums, but the EFI team has been wonderful to work with, says Sydney Fairchild, Marketing and Compliance for Bridges Produce.
Social Certification is a requirement for most major retailers, and EFI's certificate is accepted by Whole Foods, Costco, Alhold Delhaze, Walmart, Target, Albertsons/Safeway and Kroger. Not only is EFI widely accepted, but it has also involved retailers in the creation and development of the standards system, a unique and proactive approach. "It was very important to us that this process includes customers as well and a focus on the future on this industry " said Yanes. "We are very interested to see how EFI is being utilized by major companies".
Contact:
Sydney Fairchild
Bridges Produce
Tel: 503-235-7333
[email protected]
www.bridgesproduce.com