With so many food labels and certifications these days it’s sometimes tricky to prioritize what should go in your cart and why. Fairly traded products, however, definitely deserve a spot on your radar and in your cart.

The issue of fair trade is a complicated one with many different facets. A fairly traded product has been grown or produced by an individual who received a fair price for his or her product. But it goes beyond a fair wage to encompass fair labor conditions, direct trade, community development and environmental sustainability. Fair trade empowers previously impoverished farmers and their families to live a better life.

We carry many fair trade products at the co-op, including most of our coffee, tea and chocolate as well as many items in our Home and Gifts section. Look for the fair trade logo on the product or look for our shelf labels to identify these products.

Learn more! Here are a few fair trade resources:

Fair Trade USA

Equal Exchange