Last week, Mars, Incorporated announced a commitment to source 100,000 metric tons of cocoa certified by the Rainforest Alliance annually for use in Mars products. Over 40 percent of the world's conventional chocolate (i.e. non-organic and non-Fair Trade) comes from Africa's Ivory Coast, where the International Labor Organization and U.S. State Department have reported widespread instances of child slavery. Exploitation of cocoa farmers and farm workers is the norm in the chocolate industry. While the OCA recognizes Mar' progress towards sustainability with Rainforest Alliance certification, OCA and partners like the International Labor Rights Forum, have long urged Mars for stronger labor standards, organic certification and a commitment to source GE Free sugar.
Contact Mars, Incorporated today and urge them to solidify their commitment to sustainability and transition their product line to certified organic and Fair Trade, as well as commit to GE Free sugar.
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