Herbs and spices

We use herbs and spices to liven up our food. But the farmers
and workers who grow them are often “left with a bitter taste in
their mouth”.

Fortunately, a huge variety of herbs and spices are now available

as Fairtrade.

This means shoppers can choose from a diverse collection of fresh

and dried Fairtrade herbs and spices. Vanilla, rooibos,
cardamom, turmeric and saffron are just a few examples.

Choosing Fairtrade herbs and spices

makes a difference
Spices commerce situation
 While the number of workers and farmers that grow herbs and
spices is diverse and large, the number of companies that trade
and market them is not. This leads to significant differences in
trade, with farmers often suffering in terms of price.
Many works in remote areas, with poor transport and
telecommunications links. This increases production costs,
limits their market access and makes them addicted to a limited
number of traders that visit their area.
Fairtrade challenges
Fairtrade has an essential role in responding to these challenges:
 There is a Fairtrade Minimum Price aimed at covering the
costs of sustainable production.
 Small-scale farmers and plantation workers invest

the Fairtrade Premium to foster the economic, social and

ecological wellbeing of their communities.
 Fairtrade brings many other benefits for the farmers and

workers. These include access to credit ahead of harvest,

support on protection of health and safety as well as the
environment.
Whether savoury, spicy, sweet or succulent, herbs and spices add
a colourful touch to our cuisine and our cultures. Choosing
Fairtrade helps to ensure that the farmers and workers who
cultivate these products can continue to add spice to all of our
lives!