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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...

Rouge River Farms’ Second Consecutive EFI Fair: A Celebration of Learning and Collaboration

Rouge River Farms celebrated its second annual EFI Fair during the last week of September. This four-day celebration was dedicated to promoting and reviewing EFI standards among the EFI Leadership Teams and workers. Each day focused on a different set...

USDA Grant Program Provides Funding to Improve Working Conditions

EFI Training and Certification Align With Grant Objectives Whether you are currently an EFI certified operation or interested in starting the process to earn certification, a new grant program from USDA might help you cover the costs of training, certification...

EFI Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

During the months of September and October, EFI is embracing Hispanic Heritage Month. EFI comes together to honor the profound impact of Hispanic individuals on the agricultural landscape. Rooted in rich traditions and a deep connection to the land, the...

Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP) Seeks to Recognize and Strengthen Engagement Around Labor Practices in the Fresh Produce Industry

Fresh produce industry stakeholders have come together to design the Ethical Charter Implementation Program, which recognizes and strengthens engagement around labor practices in the fresh produce industry without the burden of additional audits....

Tip of the Iceberg Podcast – Episode 15: How This Organic Grower Prevents Falls, Menstruation Embarrassment

Blanca takes us back to the roots of their safety and wellness efforts, which began in 2020 with EFI certification. Their primary focus revolved around ensuring the safety of their workers, particularly concerning ladder usage in the fields and fruit...

Becoming a Family-Friendly Work Place

With back to school underway, employees may be feeling the strain of new schedules and extra expenses for everything from back-to-school supplies to sports equipment and school fees. The National Center for Farmworker Health reports that 57% of U.S. farmworkers...

Tip of the Iceberg Podcast – Episode 14: DEI expert Vic Clark “How to Diversify Produce Leadership”

In this episode of the Tip of the Iceberg Podcast, Vic Clark, a 20+ year fresh produce veteran who has held general manager roles in several fresh produce companies, provides a new perspective on how the generational history of farming...

Two EFI Directors Assume Expanded Roles

Positions Align With New Strategic Goals MEDIA RELEASE Contact: LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti, (202) 524-0540, media@equitablefood.org WASHINGTON, August 14, 2023 – Equitable Food Initiative, the capacity-building and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups, has announced new...

Supporting Workers: How EFI-Certified Farms Transform Lives While Building a Dedicated Workforce

In this blog, we highlight ways that EFI-certified farming operations are supporting their workers, from providing essential school supplies to fostering flexibility for precious family moments, from supporting their workers in times of need to be a path to make...

EFI Trains Auditors to Ensure a Consistent, Coordinated and Effective Audit

As part of the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) certification process, a team of two highly trained auditors performs an audit based to EFI’s social, IPM/pollinator health and food safety standards. To keep the audits consistent and meeting high standards, EFI...

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