4. Values-Led Sourcing >
4.5 Cocoa
Cocoa Powder
Since 2002, when we unveiled “Chocolate for a Change,” we’ve made a special effort to source the cocoa powder used in our smooth Chocolate ice cream from cooperatives of small-scale farmers who are committed to fair labor practices and sustainable techniques. 
We pay a premium for this cocoa powder, but we think it’s worth it.
In 2006, we sourced this cocoa powder from Kuapa Kokoo, a democratically-run growers’ cooperative in Ghana, West Africa. Part of the coop’s mission is to empower women members to participate in the association’s decision-making process. Kuapa Kokoo’s social practices and environmental standards are certified by the Fairtrade Labeling Organization (FLO), confirming, among other criteria, that forced child labor and trafficking are prohibited and that farmers receive a fair price for their crop.
We also made the decision in 2006 to purchase the cocoa powder for this flavor on Fair Trade terms in 2007, which means we can display the Fair Trade Certified logo on our pints. With this decision, we’re aligning more of our sourcing with the growing Fair Trade movement, which allows socially conscious consumers to have a positive impact on people and communities in the developing world.
To learn more about Fair Trade, visit our friends at Transfair USA.