FDBusiness.com

Alpro is to become the first grocery brand in theUKto demonstrate to consumers that the soy used in its soy drinks is Non-GM and sustainably sourced, by using the ProTerra certification logo on pack from June 2013 onwards. The ProTerra Certification trustmark will appear on all Alpro drinks on-shelf in theUK. Alpro products are GM-free and are made from soybeans from farmers who do not use GM.

In order to verify that Alpro products are GM- free, the company works in partnership with its suppliers to develop a control system that ensures that each link in the production line and each individual lot of soybeans is traceable and identifiable from farmer to store shelf.

This whole supply chain from seed until finished product has a strict quality assurance and control system. The supply chain is audited and certified by an independent international body, Cert ID Europe, against the ProTerra Certification standard.

ProTerra certification also shows that the rights of workers and indigenous people have been protected and that the Amazon and other high conservation value areas have been preserved.

Richard Werran from Cert ID Europe, administrators of the ProTerra Certification scheme, says: “Although the labelling of Non-GM on pack is already common in some European countries, this is the first time that a Non-GM and sustainability ‘trustmark’ has been authorised in the UK, so enabling consumers to make a choice about the kind of products that they buy. The ProTerra Certification Trustmark gives consumers assurance that the soy beans used for Alpro products are of the highest standard and their provenance from the farm to the chiller cabinet carefully regulated.”

John Allaway, UK Commercial Director at Alpro, says: “Alpro is convinced that transparent and clear information to the consumer is key and producers need to provide consumers with the freedom to make food choices. Alpro is excited about its co-operation with ProTerra and the Trustmark on its packs.  It reinforces our commitment to sustainability via a recognised external body who also shares the same passion.”