Chosen Foods Obtains B Corporation Certification
Chosen Foods, America’s #1 Avocado Oil and one of few on shelves that is guaranteed to be 100% pure, is certified as a B Corporation (B Corp). This accomplishment reinforces the brand’s commitment to a range of sustainable practices encompassing environmental performance, business standards, governance, community involvement and customer engagement.
To achieve B Corp Certification, companies must undergo a rigorous assessment process and meet a B Impact Assessment score of at least 80. Chosen Foods exceeded the requirements, demonstrating its years-long commitment to and presence of accountability and transparency through its mission-driven business.
“We’re honored to receive this certification as a proof point of our commitment to positively impacting people and our planet,” said Douglas MacFarlane, CEO. “From day one, we’ve been dedicated to building a responsible business through our better-for-you kitchen staples that replace bad fats with good fats from 100 percent pure avocado oil. Becoming B Corp Certified is an exciting milestone in recognition of these efforts and we’re proud to join the growing movement of companies working to create the positive change we need to see in the world.”
Chosen Foods considers the effects of its business and operational decisions on all its stakeholders (not just shareholders) to make a positive, material impact on society and the environment. As part of its business model for good and governing documents, the company has taken several key steps that led to it achieving B Corp Certification. These include:
- Using primarily bruised or damaged avocados that would otherwise end up in waste streams to make its 100% pure avocado oil.
- Thoroughly monitoring potential environmental impacts through regular visits to suppliers’ operations to ensure waste reduction practices and growing practices are aligned with Chosen Foods’ expectations and standards.
- Transforming any leftover matter from the oil extraction process into natural gas, animal feed, or fertilizer for farming purposes.
- Adhering to environmentally friendly purchasing procedures by routinely conducting packaging footprint assessments to review the environmental impact of packaging from conception through the sale of the product.
- Purchasing carbon offsets for all of Chosen Foods’ scope 1 and 2 emissions and a percentage of its scope 3 emissions.
- Facilitating a process of tracking all greenhouse emissions to ensure a cleaner business model and a safer planet.
Chosen Foods is dedicated to offering consumers better-for-you kitchen staples with its 100% pure avocado oil, ensuring the quality and purity of its products. By achieving B Corp status, Chosen Foods is committed to contributing to sustainable and economic system change while delivering products that are better for people and the planet.
Chosen Foods, America’s #1 Avocado Oil and Avocado Oil Spray, is always 100% pure, made with good fats from avocados, has a neutral taste, and is great for high-heat cooking (up to 500°F). Chosen Foods Avocado Oil is a versatile cooking staple and kitchen must-have that is great for general cooking, grilling, baking and more. The brand also makes additional pantry staples made with 100% pure avocado oil including: mayo, salad dressings, dip & drizzle sauces, and chocolate hazelnut spread. Learn more at www.chosenfoods.com/.
For more news of interest to the specialty food industry, subscribe to Gourmet News.
Green Life Farms Launches Updated, Recyclable Packaging
Green Life Farms, the leading controlled-environment agriculture grower in the Southeast United States, has launched new packaging, featuring a “peel and reseal” container style for its Sandwich Leaf and Butter Leaf, along with updated label designs for all products. All Green Life Farms packaging is made from 100 percent PET recyclable plastic which reflects the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and environmental sustainability. By prioritizing sustainable packaging options, the company aims to minimize its environmental impact without compromising on its product integrity.
The new design, developed by Green Life Farms’ dedicated team of experts, utilizes 40 percent less plastic while extending produce shelf life. This advancement reduces environmental impact and minimizes food waste. In tandem with the development of the new container, the company also revamped its label design. The result is a sleek and modern design that highlights the flavor, freshness, and locally grown benefits of its products.
“We’re thrilled to introduce our new packaging design,” said Sarah Boone, director of marketing. “We are confident that our customers will love not only the new look but also the functionality of the new packaging, which enhances the freshness and flavor of our Florida-grown greens.”
Green Life Farms’ dedication to automation, environmental sustainability, and cost-efficiency is evident in every aspect of its operations. The introduction of this new packaging is just one example of the company’s ongoing efforts to innovate and lead the way in sustainable agriculture. By reducing plastic usage, extending shelf life, and ensuring recyclability, the company is making strides as an industry leader within the controlled agriculture industry.
Green Life Farms operates state-of-the-art hydroponic greenhouses in Lake Worth and Punta Gorda, Fla. By incorporating agriculture with technology and focusing on food safety and local delivery, it provides consumers with fresh, tasty, and clean greens that are good for their bodies, families, communities and planet.
For more news of interest to the specialty food industry, subscribe to Gourmet News.
Farmer Brothers Hires Experienced CFO Fisher
Farmer Brothers, a leading roaster, wholesaler and distributor of coffee, tea and allied products, has appointed Vance Fisher as chief financial officer. Brad Bollner, who has served as the company’s interim CFO since August 2023, will remain with the company as its vice president of finance.
“Vance is an experienced CFO with a proven track record of helping organizations grow revenue and EBITDA,” said Chief Executive Officer John Moore. “We are excited to have him join our leadership team as we continue to unlock the full potential of our direct store delivery (DSD) network and drive strategic, long-term growth. We are also especially appreciative of Brad’s diligence and contributions throughout our recent transition.”
Fisher, who has more than 25 years of financial leadership experience, most recently served as CFO of Nothing Bundt Cakes, where he helped triple the company’s EBITDA in as many years. He has also previously served as CFO of Dunn’s River Brands, a DSD food and beverage company, and Daisy Brand, where he helped drive revenue and profitability growth by four-fold during his nine-year tenure.
Fisher holds bachelor’s degrees in both accounting and finance from the University of Oklahoma.
“Farmer Brothers has long been regarded as an industry leader and expert in coffee and I am excited to be joining the company at such a pivotal time as it refocuses on its DSD business,” said Fisher. “I look forward to working with John and team to build on recent success as the company focuses on further improving our cost structure, generating revenue and driving top line growth.”
For more news of interest to the food and beverage industry, subscribe to Gourmet News.
