ViUTZ- standard for everyone
UTZ is a certification program for sustainable farming of coffee, tea, cocoa and hazelnuts. The program is part of the Rainforest Alliance, an international non-profit organization working to create a better future for people and nature.
What is UTZ Standard?
UTZ certification shows consumers that products have been sourced, from farm to shop shelf, in a sustainable manner. To become certified, all UTZ suppliers have to follow our Code of Conduct, which offers expert guidance on better farming methods, working conditions and care for nature. This in turn leads to better production, a better environment and a better life for everyone.
Our Code of Conduct
Every UTZ certified product is grown in accordance with our Code of Conduct, which sets guidelines for better farming methods and working conditions, as well as better care for nature and future generations.
To ensure compliance with the Code, all producers receive a regular check from independent auditors. Approval results in certification, which means farmers can sell their products as UTZ certified, and all sales are recorded in the UTZ certified traceability system, the Good Inside Portal.
The Code of Conduct is based on a model of continuous improvement. From year one our farmers have to fulfill core criteria concerning safety, farm management and record keeping, employees and environmental protection. In subsequent years, more detailed requirements are added to allow farmers to develop and improve over time.
Farm Management
– Measures to optimize the yield
– An Internal Management System for groups, with responsibilities including:
– Transparency on the premium and how it is divided
– Ensuring group members have access to inputs such as training and materials
– Arranging annual internal inspections
– Record keeping
– Risk assessments
– Training and awareness raising
– Recording of volumes in the UTZ Certified traceability system
Farming Practices
– Choice of suitable planting variety
– Farm maintenance
– Soil fertility management
– Diversification of production, to support ecological diversity and economic resilience
– Integrated pest management
– Responsible and appropriate choice and use of pesticides and fertilizers, and records of
application
– Irrigation
– Product handling during and after the harvest
Social and Living Conditions
– Application of national laws and ILO conventions regarding wages and working hours, including
the living wage concept for individual farms
No forced labor or child labor
– Freedom of association and collective bargaining
– Safe and healthy working conditions, including:
– Protective clothing for work with chemicals
– Safety training of workers in their own language
– Gender equality
– No discrimination
– Freedom of cultural expression
– Access to education for children
– Access to decent housing, clean drinking water and health care for workers and their families
Environment
– Efficient use of water and energy
– Waste management
– Promotion of ecological diversity
– Protection of nature
– No deforestation of primary forests
– Respect for protected areas
– Protection of endangered species
– Reduction and prevention of soil erosion
– Measures to adapt to climate change
