Socially responsible cultivation and fair trade - fruit

This requirement can be followed up during the contract period by, for example, spot checks of the product(s) undertaken on one or more occasions. This can be done, for example, by checking the following:

Certification and associated labelling
If the requirement has been verified by means of a certification with associated labelling, follow-up is possible by checking that there is labelling on the product, the packaging, in a product database or similar. An example of certification with associated labelling that meets the contract terms is Fairtrade or an equivalent labelling.

Make use of specialist expertise in your organisation when following up the summitted evidence of compliance. This could, for example, be an environmental or sustainability strategist with extensive expertise within questions related to sustainability.

The criterion covers all imported fruit produced in risk-countries outside of the EU. For bananas, there is good availability of products that fulfil the requirements, however for other fruits a market analysis needs to be conducted before the criteria is applied.

If the aim is both organic production alongside socially responsible cultivation and fair trade, then the criterium 11537 can be combined with criterium 11009 - EU-organic product. In this case a double-certified product with both social labelling combined with EU-organic labelling can be used during follow-up. An example of such a double-certification is the EU-organic label together with the Fairtrade label, something that is common for bananas. For other products, availability can be limited.
More about how to undertake a market analysis (in Swedish)

Fair trade is a market-based movement based on dialogue, openness, and respect, that works towards a fairer global trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trade terms and guarantees rights for marginalised producers and workers.
More information about fair trade practices (in Swedish)

There are large challenges connected to working conditions and respect for human rights within food production. The problem is more widespread in countries with a poor track record of compliance with labour law legislation, but even in other countries violations of human rights can occur. Migrant workers and other vulnerable groups risk being exploited as they do not dare, or have the possibility of, demanding their working rights which can include, for example, an employment contract, a reasonable wage, and the freedom of association.

The negotiating position for growers/producers in relation to buyers can be unequal, and there is a risk that they lose contracts and customers with little notice, or that the buyer negotiates lower prices. Through equal trade terms and conditions, the grower/producer has a better possibility of being able to make a living through their business and to be able to undertake measures for increased sustainability.

The version date indicates when the sustainability criterion was created or last updated. Last reviewed dated tells when we last checked that the sustainability criterion still is relevant.