Waitrose launches the first ever UK own-label Fairtrade and organic coconut oil

Not only is it a fantastic product, it offers support to Sri Lankan farmers to invest in their farms, communities and their local environment.

The Waitrose Duchy Organic product also provides a donation to The Prince of Wales's Charitable Fund.

Waitrose has launched their new own label Coconut Oil, which is both organic and Fairtrade, the first of its kind in the UK.

This coconut oil is produced by the Sonmic Organic and Natural Farmers’ Association (SONFA). They are a small producer organisation which is based in Sri Lanka, and it prioritises organic farming with a strong focus on protecting their local environment. 

Fairtrade works with the coconut farmers to ensure they receive a fairer price for their crops, and the Fairtrade producer networks offer farmers training in environmentally friendly pest control techniques, biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

Tom Shiel, who has, in my opinion, the extremely enviable job as Waitrose Buyer, said: “We're very pleased and proud to be the first UK supermarket to launch a 100% Fairtrade own label Coconut Oil. 

"Alongside great quality and taste, the product supports Sri Lankan farmers who produce the coconut oil to invest in their farms, communities and to protect their environment.”

Kerrina Thorogood, Partnerships Director at the Fairtrade Foundation, said: “We applaud Waitrose and SONFA for their collaborative efforts to bring this brilliant new Fairtrade product to UK supermarket shelves.

"Thanks to the Fairtrade Premiums that farmers receive for their certified products, SONFA have completed projects such as repairing the village’s community centre, which was also a pre-school for the farmers’ children. Previously the children weren’t able to attend classes on rainy days due to poor insulation and leaks. However, the building and school equipment have now been renovated, and they can afford to pay the salary of the preschool teacher. We’re delighted that Waitrose’s new partnership with SONFA will allow them to contribute to this vital work.”

Sales from Waitrose Duchy Organic provide a donation to The Prince of Wales's Charitable Fund. Since 2009, customers have helped Waitrose raise in excess of £30 million for good causes, supporting a wide range of projects and communities.

Sonmic Organic and Natural Farmers’ Association (SONFA) is a small producer organisation in Sri Lanka which produces coconuts among other products. They employ some 100 permanent paid employees who are disadvantaged by global trade. In 2018 SONFA became Fairtrade certified, and since then producers have been striving to improve their livelihoods and their aspirations or a better, brighter future.

SONFA prioritise organic farming, with a strong focus on protection of the environment through sustainable development. All the farms adhere to the Fairtrade Standards to ensure that all produce is of the highest quality and fit for both global and local markets.

https://www.waitrose.com/ecom/shop/browse/groceries/organic_shop/duchy