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Produce Marketed for Migrant Farmworkers debuting in the Chicago Area. Sarasota, FL - Fair Food America "labor friendly" labeled blueberries are entering food stores in the Chicago area. Fair Food America is a non profit organization that markets produce that has been grown and harvested by agricultural companies who pay their employees a "livable wage" and provide satisfactory working conditions. The agricultural industry in the US relies heavily on migrant farmworkers. Low stagnant wages, difficult working conditions and seasonal employment often keep migrant families below the poverty level. Per the US Department of Labor, the average farmworker annual income is $7,500. Fair Food America labeled blueberries are produced by Harvest for Humanity, a farming company that pays their employees at least $8.50 per hour, far above the industry standard, and provides various benefits. Fair Food America has created a label and marketing program to ensure a safeguard for the American produce consumer, much like the garment industry has in the past. The US agricultural industry has been plagued with questionable employment practices, including convicted human trafficking cases within the past year. "This produce hits our grocery stores and restaurants. I believe the public would like to know where their produce is coming from," stated PJ Maloni, principal with Fair Food America. "There are agricultural companies who are progressive in their labor practices," acknowledged Maloni. "We want to recognize them. Unfortunately, until now, the American consumer could not tell what sort of labor conditions they were supporting when they purchased produce in the grocery stores ... now they can by looking for the Fair Food America label." Much like organic produce is marketed as "environment" friendly and canned tuna is marketed as "dolphin safe," Fair Food America is marketing produce that is people friendly. Fair Food America certifies that its produce is grown and harvested by workers who are paid a livable wage above the poverty level all in an effort to fight the immense poverty in the agricultural arena. "The sustainable agriculture movement over the past 20 years has been beneficial for the environment, but it has forgotten the most important aspect of the industry ... its people," declared Maloni. "We want to market produce that builds sustainability for people." Fair Food America blueberries will be available in Whole Foods Stores in the Chicago area this week. More varieties of Fair Food America fruits and vegetables are anticipated to enter the US market in the next year. More information about Fair Food America produce and US agricultural labor practices can be found at www.FairFoodAmerica.org. |
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