Category: Stories from the Field

Empowering Fresh Produce Operations with EFI’s Sustainability 101

Coordinating & Communicating Sustainability Efforts A growing number of innovative farmers and scientists are moving toward farming systems that are more sustainable—environmentally, economically and socially. These systems use state-of-the-art, science-based practices that maximize productivity and profit while minimizing environmental damage....

Tip of the Iceberg Podcast – Episode 18: Having Difficult Conversations Leads to Engaged, Productive Workplaces

Clarke highlights the repercussions of avoiding difficult conversations or not handling them effectively in the workplace. Some individuals may feel apprehensive about making mistakes since they fear the consequences that come with it....

EFI Introduces Customized Audit Approach

EFI has been certifying farms to its rigorous social responsibility, food safety and integrated pest management standards for nearly a decade and was proud to earn recognition from the Global Food Safety Initiative in 2022. EFI will continue to offer...

Equitable Food Initiative’s Impactful Year

EFI celebrated an impactful new program launch, grew its dedicated staff and streamlined certification to make it more cost-effective for growers starting in 2024. EFI brought together leading industry buyers and suppliers to launch the Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP);...

Tip of the Iceberg Podcast – Episode 17: Taking Action for Responsible Labor Practices

The launch of the Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP) on November 1st has sparked excitement and raised many questions. In this episode of the Tip of the Iceberg Podcast, we delve into the topic with two distinguished guests: Peter O’Driscoll,...

Veg-Fresh Farms Achieves EFI Certification

Veg-Fresh Farms proudly announces significant advancements in employee health and morale following the EFI certification of two packing facilities and citrus fields. The initial certification, completed in September, set a record-tying pace....

Gratitude Grows Here

November and December provide an opportunity for reflection on a year filled with meaningful experiences, expressing gratitude to those who contributed along the way. Acknowledging the indispensable contribution of farmworkers who tirelessly provide the sustenance that graces our tables daily...

Equitable Food Initiative Announces New Additions to Staff

Welcomes New Project Manager and Marketing Associate MEDIA RELEASE Contact: LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti, (202) 524-0540, media@equitablefood.org WASHINGTON, November 8, 2023 – Equitable Food Initiative, the capacity-building and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups, is proud...

Tip of the Iceberg Podcast – Episode 16: How ‘Green Teams’ Help 3 California Farms Reduce Waste by 2025

EFI and MTI collaborated in training at all three operations, starting with a general introduction to sustainability concepts like climate change, waste, and waste reduction. Following, every agricultural facility organized a “Green Team” consisting of 12 to 20 employees from...