Regulation

Organic cocoa supplier has digital tools to help companies comply with EU deforestation laws

By Anthony Myers

- Last updated on GMT

Tradin Organic has been working with local smallholder farmers in Sierra Leone since 2015, Pic: Tradin Organi
Tradin Organic has been working with local smallholder farmers in Sierra Leone since 2015, Pic: Tradin Organi
Tradin Organic, a Netherlands-based certified organic food ingredients supplier for the food sector, claims it can help chocolate manufacturers, brands and retailers navigate the new EU laws on deforestation by sharing access with its clients to all data and information requirements demanded by Brussels.

As Europe prepares for new deforestation laws and heightened sustainability standards, the cocoa industry is facing significant challenges​,” it said. “Tradin Organic confirms its role as a prominent player, leveraging its strengths to lead the way in sustainable cocoa production​.”

The company said it has a proven track record and a steadfast commitment to organic integrity and can leverage its strengths to lead the way in sustainable cocoa production.

Through digital traceability and due diligence, the company said its organic cocoa products can be fully traced back to the cooperatives, farmers, and fields they originate from. This transparency allows customers to access comprehensive information about the origin and production methods of the cocoa they purchase.

Digitalization is key to making this process faster and more efficient, and to include more impact data. Tradin Organic works closely together with Smallholdr, a savvy software tool that enables complete traceability up to field level. The mobile app and web-based platform help manage certification requirements, produce deforestation-free claims and measure impact of technical assistance projects like Tradin Sierra Leone’s Child Protection and Agroforestry projects​,” a company spokesperson said.

It revealed to ConfectioneryNews that it has been at the forefront of implementing Regenerative Organic Cocoa (ROC) in Sierra Leone, showcasing its dedication to sustainable farming practices.

Since 2015, our team has been working with local smallholder farmers producing organic cocoa. In 2021, Tradin Organic’s cocoa achieved the important milestone in becoming ROC-certified, being one of the first worldwide. Tradin Organic runs an extensive agroforestry program together with the agronomists of Ecotop. This partnership endeavours to protect endangered species while empowering local farmers. By adopting a smart regenerative agroforestry system, cocoa farmers can enhance their yields, discourage deforestation, and bolster their livelihoods. This way they empower farmers to increase cocoa production without resorting to clearing forests for new plots​.”

Low cadmium

As another benefit of sourcing cocoa from Sierra Leone, Tradin Organic said it could offer beans with the lowest cadmium levels among all cocoa origins.

By meticulously managing cadmium content, Tradin Organic ensures that its cocoa and cocoa blends remain well below regulatory limits, which tremendously helps chocolate makers cope with the strict European regulation on cadmium in cocoa and derived products. This diligent quality control not only ensures compliance with safety standards but also guarantees exceptional taste and purity in its products​,” it said in a statement.

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