February 2010

Editorial

Fair Trade: The Paradox of Global Social Change

By John Kay

John Kay Like all great social change movements, Fair Trade is a messy and imperfect project.

A grassroots movement that for some emerged in opposition to global free trade eventually gave rise to an ambitious labeling and certification system that has now grown into a complex global organization. A simple yet powerful idea that began with small scale coffee farmers now spans a vast range of products that includes soccer balls and soon artisanal gold. From the 1988 launch of the world’s first Fair Trade labelling initiative, Stichting Max Havelaar is today part of a worldwide network of twenty-three certifying bodies, that includes TransFair Canada, and three producer networks within the Fairtrade Labelling Organizations (FLO) International.

Hoja Verde

Roses; Hoja Verde Ecuador is one of the biggest producers of roses on the planet. On just under 4000 hectares of land 404 varieties of roses grow 2000 metres above sea level on the plains of the Ecuadorian Sierra. The unique climatic and geographic conditions of the plains allow roses to be grown at a consistent temperature year round. This consistency has given Ecuadorian roses an excellent reputation for having long stems, bright colours, and an extended vase life. Ecuadorian roses are enjoyed world wide and are sold in more than 90 countries.

Spiced Plum Torte with Cardamom Cream

Plum torte This is a fast, impressive and versatile dessert. We have made it not only with plums but with pears, apricots, nectarines and wild blueberries and the results have always been delicious. The torte can be served warm or at room temperature.

Recipe development and food styling by Anita Whyte, www.foodfluffer.blogspot.com
Photography by Michael Kohn, www.michaelkohn.com

Green and Black's Go 100 Percent Fairtrade

Organic chocolate maker Green & Black's said it is bolstering its commitment to sustainability by moving its entire global food and beverage range worldwide to Fairtrade.

The chocolate manufacturer, owned by Cadbury since 2005, launched the first ever Fairtrade certified product in the UK - Maya Gold – 15 years ago.