Veg-Fresh Farms has received Equitable Food Initiative certification of two packing facilities and citrus fields, according to a news release.
The Corona, Calif.-based agribusiness partners with farmers in California and Mexico to provide year-round conventional and organic fresh fruits and vegetables to customers nationwide. Jasmin Amigon, Veg-Fresh food safety and social responsibility coordinator, credits a positive culture shift in the Veg-Fresh facilities to the company’s work with EFI.
“EFI has provided mind-opening guidance not just for management but for our entire workforce, farmworkers included,” she said in the release.
The certification prompted Veg-Fresh to establish monthly in-person sessions for management to connect with workers, fostering open communication. This initiative led to the implementation of a suggestion box, monthly forklift training, a facility-wide recycling program, and enhanced safety measures, creating a more secure work environment, the release said.
“Adherence to EFI principles showcase how these minor adjustments profoundly impact our organizations’ well-being,” Molly Williams, Veg-Fresh food safety and organic compliance coordinator, said in the release. Williams further highlighted the positive impact of small changes, such as incorporating stretches to mitigate injuries.
Veg-Fresh Farms is a third-generation, family-run agribusiness that supplies fresh produce to national foodservice and retail chains. The company operates under the Veg-Fresh Farms, Crystal Cove Berry Farms, Pure Citrus, Sweet King, On Flavor and Good Life Organic brands.
“Their quick identification of facility needs, and rapid execution is impressive,” Adriana Martinez, director of certification programs for EFI, said in the release regarding Veg-Fresh’s swift and committed approach. “The positive impact on communication, morale, and workplace safety sets a high standard for the industry.”
Equitable Food Initiative is a nonprofit certification and skill-building organization that seeks to increase transparency in the food supply chain and improve the lives of farmworkers through a team-based approach to training and continuous improvement practices.
Related: The Packer, EFI launch Grow the Good award to highlight farmworkers
