It seems every café I’ve walked into during our trip (and I’ve walked into a lot) there has been something on the menu that is Fair Trade. I’ve seen it everywhere and after a little research I found that the emblem I’ve been seeing is from the Fair Trade Foundation out of the UK.
Over the past couple years I’ve had a growing interest in Fair Trade items. I believe it is a worthy cause and as I research it more I recognize its importance.
I’m not to that point where I seek out and only purchase Fair Trade items. This is mainly because where I am from in the States, it isn’t very available. Although, I hope that is changing.
During my trip, if it has been available I order it. I know Fair Trade goes beyond food, but that is what I am focusing on.
It is probably pretty important that I make the decision to purchase these products because of three things – I am a coffee enthusiast, I have a growing affinity for tea and I love chocolate. All three are items that receive a lot of attention when it comes to Fair Trade.
With some of my research I am glad to be learning that there is an effort to keep prices of these products competitive. It seems with a lot of things that have value or importance there is a trend to cash in and charge higher prices even when it is not necessary.
Last December I did a quick walk through the coffee aisle at a Wal-Mart and was surprised to see that the Sam’s Choice brand actually had some Fair Trade choices. In addition, it was the least expensive on the shelf.
Now, I’m not sure of the quality and I know I have a lot to learn about the different Fair Trade certifications and foundations, but it is nice to know that I can actually afford to buy these products on a regular basis.
How do you feel about Fair Trade products? Are they readily available in your area?
I think its so great that you really research and understand all of the topics you talk about! I am a coffee fanatic as well 🙂 I will def pay more attention to Fair trade items now. Thanks for the heads up!
Thanks erica. It is the curse of the science interest and background. I have to know the ‘why’ about everything. Ha, ha!
Not a coffee fan here, but I do love chocolate! I haven’t been as diligent about it as I probably should be, but I’ve been buying fair trade chocolate when I can.