Since our inception, we have chosen to exclusively use ingredients that are USDA certified organic. This is a non-negotiable.
These foods are never irradiated and are produced without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO’s), relatively recent technologies without sufficient research proving their safety. The certification also confirms food is produced without the use of persistent pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or sewage sludge. Not only do these substances use energy and resources in their production, they also contribute to soil degradation and ocean dead zones. Without organic certification, there is no way to prove that organic practices were used.
Read more about USDA Organic
SUSTAINABILITY
There are no guidelines regarding the word (or any variant of the word) “sustainable.” Without any certification program, there is no proof needed to make the claim that a company or product is sustainable. When we speak about our sustainability, we are speaking of our ecosystem-based business model.
Read more about misleading terms.
FARMS WE WORK WITH
Because we manufacture raw, non-homogenized products, the bottled beverage is only as good as the ingredients that go inside. Forming partnerships with communities that value quality and organic farming practices is rooted in our attention to long-term growth. These partnerships offer a stable option for employment and income where there once was none.
FARMS WE WILL WORK WITH
Happily, our promise of a long-term presence is acting as an incentive to others. We are in a position to help certify farmers who convert to organic farming methods and are approved through audit. This creates healthier environments with less chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and communities with long-term steady incomes.
SOCIAL INITIATIVES
Harmless Harvest is currently in the Fair for Life certification process and began implementing the required protocols with the launch of our first project. Our manufacturing and business operations are certified both in the US and overseas. We are now working with our numerous farmers to ensure successful audits in 2014.
Our aim is not to just stick a label on a package and write a press release, but rather to find an expert partner. The partnership with Fair for Life requires long-term audits that will help us continuously improve our social practices from plant to shelf. The audits certify fair sourcing practices, traceability of all certified products, and that all members of a company’s staff have decent working conditions. We look forward to sharing our yearly reviews and itemized annual goals with all our stakeholders. Being responsible means being accountable.
For ingredients that are not under our direct sourcing control, like honey and agave, we look for proof of third party Fair Trade certification. The communities who produced these goods were fairly compensated and had access to the Fair Trade organization’s resources. Funds go to community development projects such as teaching sustainable farming practices.
Read more about Fair Trade