Promoting sustainable agriculture:

Brüggen using UTZ-certified cocoa

For us at H. & J. Brüggen KG, the principle of sustainability is fundamental to our business practices and philosophy: as a family-owned company and food manufacturer, we are aware of our special responsibility – not only to consumers, but also for the raw materials and suppliers that we select conscientiously.

Using exclusively UTZ-certified cocoa

Since 2015 Brüggen has been using exclusively UTZ-certified cocoa in its products. Through our purchasing choices, we are supporting the aims of the UTZ programme, which is dedicated to encouraging farmers worldwide to use good agricultural practices for achieving profitably while improving social and environmental conditions. By transitioning to UTZ-certified cocoa, Brüggen is doing even more to fulfil its social and environmental responsibilities. Annual certification audits are conducted to monitor and confirm compliance with UTZ guidelines.

What is behind the “UTZ Certified” label?

Since 2002 the UTZ Certified programme has been run by a foundation headquartered in Amsterdam. The quality seal was developed by the industry for coffee production and, after its successful introduction, expanded to include cocoa and tea. The stated aim of the UTZ programme is to change the practices used worldwide in the production and processing of agricultural goods and make them more sustainable.

In the countries where these crops are grown, the UTZ programme teaches farmers, e.g. cocoa producers, about more sustainable agricultural practices, enabling them to increase their profits while at the same time meeting standards for social and environmental responsibility. Through the UTZ programme, farmers improve their working conditions and increase their yields, enabling them to achieve greater long-term financial stability for themselves and their families. At the same time, guidance is provided on fertilisation methods and approaches for dealing with the effects of climate change, helping farmers to make more careful use of natural resources.

UTZ certification is available for cocoa (products) and chocolate, as well as the semi-finished and finished products made from these raw materials.

What guidelines does Brüggen have to follow in its transition to UTZ-certified cocoa?

In order to achieve UTZ certification for their products, companies must meet the current requirements of the UTZ Chain of Custody for Cocoa throughout the entire production process. This standard defines various traceability programme levels for UTZ-certified cocoa and cocoa products. Compliance is assessed and certified through annual audits by the certification body Control Union Certifications (CUC). Companies must earn certification before any UTZ products can be produced or marketed.

Our contribution towards sustainability and improved living conditions

Thanks to the UTZ seal, our customers can trust that 100% of the cocoa contained in any Brüggen product is UTZ certified. This means that, by purchasing and enjoying our products, consumers are helping to improve the living conditions of cocoa farmers and to conserve natural resources in cocoa-producing countries.

17.01.2017

News

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