Global ingredients supplier Ofi has published its latest sustainability report for its nuts business, highlighting advancements in agricultural technology and sustainability practices across its operations. The 'Nut Trails' impact report for 2023 showcases initiatives in almond, cashew, and hazelnut operations globally, including the Kind Almond Acres Initiative in California. This initiative explores regenerative agriculture practices over 202 hectares, alongside the expansion of AI-powered BeeHome technology to bolster pollinator protection.
In response to U.S. beekeepers reporting over 45 % colony losses in the 2022-2023 crop year, Ofi's deployment of AI-powered beehive technology has safeguarded over 650,000 bees. Complementary to this, the introduction of new irrigation decision support tools is optimizing water usage in almond orchards. Additionally, 85 % of total energy consumption in Australian orchards is being offset through renewable sources.
In Turkey, over 7,000 hazelnut farmers have received training in advanced crop residue management and composting practices. This effort is aimed at enhancing farm resilience and promoting the adoption of climate-smart practices. The social impact of Ofi has also seen growth, with premium payments to cashew farmers in sustainability programs nearly doubling to $2 million in 2023. Furthermore, nutrition and health support programs have reached over 116,500 individuals in cashew-growing regions.
Burcu Turkay, global head of sustainability for nuts at Ofi, emphasized the importance of flexibility and openness to new technologies and business models to overcome sustainability challenges. The company's 2030 Nut Trails targets focus on four key impact pillars: Prosperous Farmers, Thriving Communities, Climate Action, and Regenerating the Living World, aligning with Ofi's Choices for Change sustainability strategy.
Ashok Krishen, CEO of Ofi's nuts platform, highlighted the role of partnerships in achieving sustainability progress. The company has engaged in 13 impactful partnerships, bringing a joint funding commitment of US$2 million to sustainability programs last year. These collaborations span across various farming communities and initiatives, from the KIND Almond Acres project in California to tackling malnutrition in cashew communities in Côte d'Ivoire.
Source: Candy & Snack Today