October 6, 2023 In a world grappling with environmental challenges, initiatives like Rainforest Alliance are an important step towards a more sustainable future. By baking on cocoa with the Rainforest Alliance seal, you are helping to protect forests and biodiversity, combat the climate crises and improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and their families.
At Bakels Sweden, sustainability is not merely a buzzword, it’s a responsibility that transcends generations. It goes without saying it is a must for us to source our cocoa responsibly, and all cocoa in our production is Rainforest Alliance Certified. This applies to products such as Bakels Truffles, Chockex Compound Coating and cake mixes containing cocoa.
Working with Rainforest Alliance not only signifies a more responsible business practices but also embodies a commitment to preserving our planet’s precious resources. But what does the certification mean and how can you as a bakery benefit?
Certified cocoa protects nature and respects the right of workers
Certified cocoa refers to cocoa that has been produced and sourced according to specific sustainability and ethical standards. The seal contributes to safeguarding the rainforest and prevents deforestation, reduces chemical usage and promotes responsible water management and land use.
Moreover, Rainforest Alliance Certified cocoa ensures that cocoa farming communities thrive socially and economically. It mandates fair treatment and prevents child labour, ensuring proper wages, safe working conditions and providing access to education and healthcare. It also translates to direct access to markets that value sustainable practices.
70% or the world’s cocoa is grown on small farms in West Africa. The Rainforest Alliance Cocoa Certification Program is the world’s largest scale initiative to drive more sustainable cocoa farming. By working with nearly one million cocoa farmers, the program is helping to build thriving livelihoods and promote climate resilience through certification and training.
Responsible production of baked goods
In the sector of confectionery and baked goods we see a growing demand for certified cocoa. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental and ethical implications of their choices, the baking industry is experiencing a significant shift towards using certified cocoa in their creations.
Industrial bakeries choose to source certified ingredients for various reasons, such as meeting consumer demand, ensuring transparency and traceability, enhancing brand reputation and lending credibility to their sustainability claims.
Consumers are not only looking for delectable treats but also for products that resonate with their values. Certified cocoa allows bakers to cater to these preferences, giving them an edge in a competitive market.
The largest markets for certified cocoa are found in Scandinavia and Western Europe, and experts predict that the demand for certified cocoa will continue to grow. The baking industry will play a pivotal role in driving this trend forward.
We at Bakels Sweden are committed to minimizing the ecological footprint. We believe that a great cake should not only taste good but also originate from an environmentally friendly and responsible supply chain. Certification is a crucial aspect of our efforts to achieve our sustainability goal. Do you want to know more?
About Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance is an international non-profit organisation that works to protect biological diversity and for sustainable development. It is a collaboration between farmers, forest communities, companies and consumers committed to creating a world where people and nature can live side by side.
A Rainforest Alliance certification is a testament to an organization’s dedication to a more sustainable practices. It serves as a recognition of efforts to protect ecosystems, uphold the rights and well-being of workers and local communities.
This certification extends beyond a mere label, it symbolizes a harmonious relationship between business activities and the environment.
#FollowTheFrog
The Rainforest Alliance seal is a green frog. This little creature helps consumers to recognize products that contribute a better future. By following the frog you make a positive impact on the world.
Questions & Answers
How much of the world’s cocoa production is certified?
According to the World Cocoa Foundation, around 22% of the globally traded cocoa is certified. That includes Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade and organic.
Is certified cocoa of better quality?
Certification is not directed to the quality of cacao. However, studies show that Rainforest Alliance certified cocoa farms have higher crop yields and quality due to improved training on farming practices.
Which of Bakels Sweden’s products contain certified cocoa?
All products that contain cocoa and are produced at our facility in Sweden contain certified cocoa. This includes Bakels Truffles, Chockex Coating, Choc Muffin Mix, Chocolate Muffin Mix and UPK Remonce Chocolate.
