DES MOINES, Iowa—Kemin has become the first and only to be certified sustainably grown for 100 percent of its rosemary production. The certification followed an audit conducted by SCS Global Services.
Attaining sustainably grown certification via third party requires long-term environmental and social responsibility along with quality and safety requirements.
“Today's consumers are more interested in supporting sustainable agriculture practices than ever," said Linda Brown, SCS senior vice president. “This certification assures Kemin Industries’ customers that the rosemary in its rosemary-based products is not just high-quality, but produced in an environmentally and socially responsible way."
Dedicated to sustainable and environmental farming practices, Kemin contracts with family farmers in Texas and New Mexico to grow its proprietary rosemary varieties. This partnership increases the quality and quantity of crops, improves farming practices, promotes healthy working conditions and builds community relations.
“Our vertically integrated system uses the best growing practices to produce a consistent, sustainable and cost-effective supply of rosemary extract-based ingredients that enhance the agro-ecosystem rather than endanger it," said John Greaves, Kemin vice president of specialty crops.
Last year, Kemin had only received certification for just over 50 percent of its rosemary production.