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Feastables Commits to 100% Fairtrade Cocoa

In a significant step towards ethical chocolate production, Feastables has shared exciting news: they are now sourcing all of their cocoa from Fairtrade certified cooperatives. This commitment not only speaks to the company's dedication to quality but also its responsibility towards the farmers who produce this essential crop. Fairtrade certification ensures that the cocoa is produced under strict economic, social, and environmental standards that protect the livelihoods of cocoa farmers, farm workers, and their families.

Jimmy Donaldson, popularly known as MrBeast and the founder of Feastables, expressed his concern over the status quo of the cocoa industry, highlighting that nearly six million individuals depend on cocoa farming but often earn less than a dollar a day. "The big chocolate sector often turns a blind eye to the harsh realities faced by farmers and their families in cocoa-growing regions, especially in West Africa," he explained. He emphasized that child labor remains a significant issue in these communities; in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, many children are forced into illegal labor.

"We created Feastables to change this narrative," MrBeast stated. The brand is harnessing its extensive fan network to advocate for ethical sourcing and to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation. Acknowledging that the chocolate industry is worth billions, he underscored the need for a shift that allows farmers to thrive instead of living in poverty.

Amanda Archila, the Executive Director of Fairtrade America, supported Feastables' initiative, recognizing the pressing need to address the wide gap between gross profits of chocolate manufacturers and the meager income of cocoa farmers. She explained that despite cocoa being a critical ingredient in chocolate, the farmers often struggle to make ends meet due to issues like climate change, inadequate production practices, and fluctuating cocoa prices.

The collaboration with Fairtrade is a landmark move as Feastables promises to pay a specific Living Income Reference Price. This pay structure not only helps sustain farmers but also ensures they can invest in better farming practices, enabling them to cultivate their land sustainably.

"Fairtrade is the most reliable source of ethically sourced products that consumers can trust," commented Alex Zigliara, CEO of Feastables. With the Fairtrade mark on its packaging, the brand anticipates creating a significant awareness among consumers globally. Research indicates that 71% of international shoppers recognize the Fairtrade mark, with 86% trusting it as a guarantee of ethical sourcing.

Feastables isn't just stopping at sourcing. The company's ethical sourcing strategy aims to eliminate child labor by addressing its root causes—primarily poverty. Their three-pronged approach includes: 1) exclusively sourcing cocoa that's Fairtrade certified, 2) ensuring farmers receive living wages, and 3) collaborating with farms employing effective child labor monitoring systems.

In addition to these efforts, Feastables plans to invest in educational initiatives within local communities, thereby enhancing children's wellbeing and helping them transition from labor to classrooms. The company aims to provide farmers with better access to skilled labor and machinery, decreasing dependence on underpaid child laborers.

Excitingly, consumers can expect to see Feastables packaging featuring Fairtrade certification hit the shelves by the summer of 2025. This will not only highlight the commitment of Feastables to ethical sourcing but also empower consumers to make informed choices. Before making a purchase, shoppers can check for Fairtrade certification to ensure they are contributing to a fair and sustainable system.

About Fairtrade America

Fairtrade America is dedicated to reforming trade systems to create partnerships based on mutual respect and fairness instead of exploitation. It supports over two million farmers and workers across 70 countries in efforts to achieve these goals. As part of a larger network that includes Fairtrade International, it continues to advocate for economic justice and environmental sustainability in global trades.

About Feastables

Founded in 2022 by MrBeast, Feastables is a global snacking company focused on making a positive impact. Its mission revolves around eradicating child labor in West Africa's cocoa industry, pushing towards a system where children can attend school instead of working on farms. By prioritizing ethical practices, Feastables aims to revolutionize the chocolate industry and create a sustainable future for farmers and their families.

With this bold initiative, Feastables clearly stands at the crossroads of ethical business practices and the chocolate industry’s future, championing a model where fairness, respect, and sustainability reign supreme.