ofi sets the standard with the first Rainforest Alliance certification for US almonds

Olam food ingredients has earned America’s first Rainforest Alliance certification for its California orchards.

As one of the world’s largest almond growers with orchards in California and Australia, Olam food ingredients’ (ofi’s) says its certification is good news for makers and consumers of almond-based food and drink products, from cereal bars and trail mixes to milk alternatives and flours. It not only demonstrates responsible almond sourcing practices to customers but also highlights ofi’s dedication to its ambitious ‘Almond Trail’ sustainability product strategy.

ofi’s approach to producing high-quality, flavourful almonds with a lower carbon footprint is driven by partnerships with the Almond Board of California and the California Water Action Collaborative, as well as universities and labs. The collaboration focuses on incorporating high levels of mechanisation and the latest agronomy practices to improve water-use efficiency, ensure best-practice pollinator management techniques, and increase orchard carbon capture activities.

“We’re happy that ofi joined hands with us to certify their almond ranches in California. It’s great to see their commitment to improving practices within the almond industry, from managing pests and chemicals responsibly to enhancing soil and supporting biodiversity. This move broadens the choices for sustainability-conscious consumers, who can now enjoy Rainforest Alliance certified almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews,”  says Michelle Deugd, director forest and agriculture, Rainforest Alliance.

Damien Houlahan, head of almonds at ofi: “Our approach to responsible almond farming and supply chain transparency is ambitious, but it goes hand in hand with delivering high-quality products to our customers – and their consumers. This certification reflects our relentless pursuit of making every almond count toward a more sustainable and equitable future. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with ofi, from our orchard teams to our operations teams, who have committed to upholding the rigorous standards set by the Rainforest Alliance.”

As ofi continues its sustainability efforts under its ‘Almond Trail’ strategy, customers and partners can look forward to the first impact report detailing its 2023 progress, set to be published later this year.

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