Tip of the Week - What is Fair Trade?

I have been hearing this phrase more and more often, most recently at my daughter’s school, where fair trade uniforms were offered for sale this fall!  But what does “fair trade” actually mean?  My feeling is that my daughter’s generation probably has a better handle on this, and so I thought that like me, Busy Bee readers might like an update!

Fair Trade certification on a product means that it has been produced by workers who have earned a fair wage (for both men and women!) and in safe working conditions.  These workers are usually from developing countries, with the overall goal of alleviating poverty and creating sustainable, independent industries.  Cultural identity is respected, as well as the environment.  The Fair Trade movement began with handmade crafts and expanded to tea, coffee, cocoa, sugar, nuts, dried fruits, herbs and more.  You can be assured that the food products you buy tomorrow are Fair Trade Certified if you spot the distinctive black and white label as regulated by TransFair USA! (for more details see transfairusa.org) 

Fair Trade is good for business and even better for humanity!  Shop for Fair Trade products freely and feel great about it! 

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