A.V. Thomas Produce earns Equitable Food Initiative certification
A.V. Thomas Produce earns Equitable Food Initiative certification
A.V. Thomas Produce's operations have achieved certification through the Equitable Food Initiative, a groundbreaking program that brings together growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups to transform agriculture through higher standards.
EFI certification is awarded to operations that meet more than 300 rigorous standards focused on food safety, environmental stewardship and improved working conditions. A.V. Thomas Produce successfully earned this certification following an independent, third-party assessment conducted by SCS Global Services.
“Achieving EFI certification is a significant milestone for our team,” said Brian Escobar, director of organic and compliance. “It reflects our deep commitment to not only growing high-quality organic and conventional sweet potatoes, but also fostering a safer, more transparent system and creating a workplace where our employees can thrive.”
The Equitable Food Initiative partners with growers and retailers to build a more transparent supply chain, ensuring safer food and healthier working environments across the agricultural industry. EFI-certified partners implement collaborative worker-management training, continuous improvement practices, and robust verification processes that benefit everyone from the field to the consumer.
By joining the EFI program, A.V. Thomas Produce reinforces its dedication to responsible farming practices and strengthens its role as a trusted partner to retailers and consumers seeking ethically grown food.
“Our participation in EFI aligns with our core values,” said Jason VanDusen, director of marketing. “We believe that doing the right thing — for our people, our partners and our customers — is essential to long-term success.”
