Why Fair Trade Matters

Food co-ops around the county have been instrumental in the growing awareness of the fair trade movement.  With similar missions and goals, co-ops and fair trade companies have enjoyed a thriving and symbiotic relationship.  Fair trade certification provides a way for consumers to connect with small farmers in some of the poorest countries of the world, and by choosing to purchase fair trade goods, extend the hope of a better life.  Fair trade is not charity it simply means providing a fair wage for workers while working to build their commmunities and protect their land and ecosystems.  Fair Trade is a set of business practices voluntarily adopted by the producers and buyers of agricultural commodities and hand-made crafts that are designed to advance many economic, social and environmental goals. 

Fair Trade Products Available:

Coffee, tea, cocoa, produce, sugar, grains, cotton, nuts & oilseeds, honey, wine, flowers, vanilla, herbs & spices

Principles of Fair Trade Certification:

> Fair prices: Farmers, hired workers, artisans and other producers receive a fair price or wage for their time and materials.

> Fair & safe labor conditions: Workers on farms, in factories and on plantations enjoy freedom of association, safe working conditions, and humane treatment. Forced child labor is strictly prohibited.

> Direct trade: Importers purchase from Fair Trade producer groups as directly as possible, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and empowering producers to develop the business capacity necessary to compete in the global marketplace.

> Democratic and transparent organizations: Producers decide democratically how to invest Fair Trade premiums for community development and capacity building of producer organizations.

> Community development: Producers invest premiums in social and business development projects.

> Environmental sustainability: Harmful agrochemicals and GMO's are strictly prohibited in favor of environmentally sustainable methods that protect producers' health and preserve ecosystems.

Fair Trade Items at Linden Hills Co-op