WASHINGTON, DC & NEWARK, DE - Make choices today that will contribute to the sustainability of tomorrow. This is a belief I have come to know well during my time in the fresh produce industry. The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) lives this mantra through and through, and recently made a move to elevate its efforts. The association has joined the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative (SSCI).

“IFPA is committed to providing expertise and business solutions in sustainability, technology, supply chain, and other key issues facing the global produce and floral community,” said IFPA Chief Executive Officer Cathy Burns. “Consumer Goods Forum and its SSCI is the trusted source in benchmarking and sustainability standards. We look forward to joining the Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative Steering Committee where Tamara can provide perspectives and insights from our industry as internationally recognized standards are created and adopted.”

According to a press release, the SSCI utilizes the same approach as the CGF’s Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) for recognizing standards. IFPA will be providing expertise in sustainable practices as well as identifying the challenges, opportunities, and constraints of the produce industry.

Chief Science Officer at IFPA, Dr. Max Teplitski, also commented on the new alliance.

“Our industry has never shied away from challenges, and prides itself on growing the food that is good for the people and for our planet,” said Teplitski. “To make the most impact in the sustainability space, we must work with all stakeholders to streamline and benchmark sustainability audit requirements. There should be no additional burden for those who choose to adopt sustainability practices.”

Ahold Delhaize, Naturipe, and Tesco are just a few of the names from the group of 21 additional members.

“As sustainability continues to evolve, we see so many new standards and audits that the SSCI is a critical resource for members of not only produce but all of the food industry to vet and validate these requirements,” said Director of Sustainability Tamara Muruetagoiena, who will be representing IFPA at the CGF. “I’m thrilled that produce is recognized as an essential industry in establishing these standards and I am most looking forward to ensuring that not only is produce at the table, but that our expertise and challenges are heard.”

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International Fresh Produce Association