Retailers are increasingly demanding higher standards for both social responsibility and integrated pest management (IPM), putting pressure on growers to demonstrate compliance.
Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) offers a streamlined solution, as discussed in their recent webinar, “People & Pollinators: EFI Certification for Multiple Retailer Requirements.”
The Intersection of People and IPM
The connection between pest management and worker health is not new. Efforts to monitor pesticide impact date back to the 1970s and 80s, driven by awareness of the direct health impacts on agricultural workers coming from pesticide use. Early auditing efforts aimed to ensure workers were managing chemical use responsibly.
EFI also bridges the gap between labor standards and IPM. Our model allows growers and suppliers to meet multiple retailer expectations through a single certification program, proving that taking care of the workforce and taking care of the environment are interconnected goals.
Retailer Requirements
Consumers are driving the demand for safer, more responsibly produced food. Retailers need to ensure a transparent, safe supply chain. According to Karla Cook, EFI certification manager, this means not just auditing for safe working conditions, but also ensuring IPM practices are rigorously implemented.
The EFI Difference: Worker Engagement
EFI leverages worker engagement. Workers are not just subjects of an audit; they are active participants in ensuring IPM standards are met on the ground through the Worker-Manager Collaboration Team.
EFI validates that prevention measures are understood and applied correctly through worker interviews during the audit.
Streamlining Compliance
For operations already doing the EFI certification, adding EFI’s IPM standards is a manageable lift. This process often adds only a half-day or a full day to the audit process. Furthermore, EFI is strengthening its auditor qualifications so that in the future, a single, knowledgeable auditor can verify both social and IPM standards in one visit.
Retailer Recognition
EFI certification is recognized by major retailers, including:
- Costco
- Whole Foods
- Walmart
- Target
- Albertsons/Safeway
- Loblaw
- Kroger
- Ahold Delhaize
To learn more about how to certify your operations into alignment with these comprehensive standards, watch the full webinar, explore EFI’s resources and contact us.