LAFAZA FOODS, an innovator in developing sustainable sourcing projects in Madagascar, is pleased to introduce a new line of high-quality, sustainable Madagascar vanilla products at the 2014 Winter Fancy Foods Show. The gourmet product line includes 3 commercial grades of vanilla beans, 1-fold and 2-fold pure vanilla extracts, and pure ground vanilla powder. All products are available in a variety of unit sizes for retail, foodservice, and manufacturing purposes.
LAFAZA was established after two co-founders served as Peace Corps Volunteers with rural vanilla farmers in Madagascar from 2005-2007. Challenged by rural growers associations to create a new model for vanilla bean trading, the team decided to develop a business model based on direct partnerships, transparency and fair-trading principles. In 2012, Lafaza received a prestigious Innovations Against Poverty Grant from the Swedish International Development and Cooperation Agency (Sida) in recognition of their fresh approach. The company’s operations and team have grown over time, but its values remain rooted in three commitments toward long-term sustainability:
Great Flavors
Lafaza strives to offer the best natural vanilla and spices to customers. Only high-quality, all-natural vanilla beans and spices are used to create its products. Facilities in Toamasina, Madagascar and Oakland, CA provide meticulous food safety and quality controls. Great products lead to long-term customer relationships, consistent sourcing, and greater impact in more rural farming communities.
Healthy Forests
Lafaza’s partners grow vanilla in complex agroforestry systems that work much like natural forest. Vanilla vines grow with cloves, coffee, fruit trees, and a vast diversity of native hardwoods. These fields provide important environmental services including soil regeneration, water filtration, and animal habitats. Healthy soils and clean water produce better quality vanilla beans. Lafaza’s integrated supply chain is organized to minimize its environmental footprint, contributing to a healthier planet.
Farmer Livelihoods
Lafaza is committed to ethical, direct trade with small-holder farmers, and to increasing livelihoods in rural Madagascar farming communities where the company works. Farmers receive training, organizational support, and higher incomes for their vanilla beans. The company partners with communities to build rural libraries and to develop community projects. Lafaza’s unique relationship with vanilla farmers leads to a deeper commitment to product quality and to sustainable long-term production strategies.
Source: Lafaza Foods