Sustainability For Cocoa

At Hames Chocolates Ltd, we are committed to ensuring that our cocoa is sourced from ethical and sustainable suppliers. By partnering with organisations like The Rainforest Alliance and Cocoa Horizons, we help protect both cocoa-growing communities and the environment, while never compromising on the quality of our products.

 Go Sustainable – Fairly Traded Cocoa from Farmer to Factory

Several certification programs exist to ensure that the cocoa used in chocolate production is traded fairly and sustainably. But what does "fair trade" really mean, and how do chocolate factories, like ours, support cocoa farmers in regions such as the Ivory Coast?

Through certification programs, both cocoa farmers and chocolate manufacturers collaborate to create positive change. By paying an additional premium for cocoa-based products, these programs fund initiatives that increase farmer productivity, improve local communities, and protect the environment. The most notable certification programs include The Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade Foundation, and Cocoa Horizons Foundation.

 Challenges Faced by Cocoa Farmers

Most of the world’s cocoa comes from smallholder farmers in West Africa, many of whom live in remote areas and lack access to basic infrastructure and services. The additional premiums paid for certified cocoa help ensure that farmers receive a fair price, along with essential business education and resources for sustainable farming. These programs also support community improvements, such as access to education, healthcare, and clean water, helping families thrive.

 How to Recognise Certified Cocoa Products

You can usually tell if the chocolate you’re purchasing contains ethically traded cocoa by looking for certification logos or seals on the packaging. At Hames Chocolates, we are working to display these seals prominently on all our packaging, so you know exactly which certification program you are supporting with your purchase.

In 2019, Hames Chocolates participated in four certification schemes: UTZ Certified Cocoa, Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, and Cocoa Horizons. In 2020, the UTZ Certified and Rainforest Alliance schemes merged under the Rainforest Alliance brand. Today, we support two leading certifications: Rainforest Alliance and Cocoa Horizons.

 What Do These Certifications Mean?

The Rainforest Alliance tackles pressing environmental and social issues, from combating deforestation and climate change to promoting economic opportunities for cocoa farmers and workers. Through their seal, you know that your purchase supports rigorous certification standards that advance long-term environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

The Cocoa Horizons Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on increasing cocoa farmer prosperity, promoting community development, and safeguarding the environment. They address key issues like eliminating child labour, educating farmers, and preventing deforestation. Their impact-driven program, regularly monitored and reported, helps build self-sustaining farming communities that prioritise nature and the well-being of children.

 A Commitment to Ethical Trade and Transparency

Hames Chocolates values transparency throughout the cocoa supply chain. That’s why we have been long-time members of Sedex, one of the world’s leading ethical trade service providers.

As part of the Sedex platform, we collaborate with other like-minded, ethical businesses, ensuring that our suppliers adhere to responsible labour practices and sustainable sourcing. Sedex audits ask important questions regarding labour practices, health and safety, environmental impact, and business ethics.

At Hames Chocolates, our commitment to sustainability is symbolised by the seals on our packaging. The Rainforest Alliance’s green frog seal and the impact-driven Cocoa Horizons Foundation signify our dedication to responsible and ethical cocoa sourcing.

Carol Oldbury, Director of Hames Chocolates, emphasizes, “We use the Sedex platform to connect with ethical businesses, confident that our suppliers are upholding the same responsible practices we believe in.”