Indigo Star refutes exploitation claims

GlobalGAP has found no evidence of wrongdoing at an Argentine blueberry producer following complaints of ill treatment by one of its workers. Julio Sandoval accused his employer, Indigo Star, of holding workers captive and non-payment of wages last month.

Following his claims, the German certification body and British supermarket chain Tesco, which Indigo Star supplies, ordered an extraordinary inspection of the premises to be carried out on 21 January. But this failed to corroborate Sandoval’s claims. In fact, GlobalGAP said the results of the inspection had been excellent.

The tents used to house temporary workers during the harvest season were found to be adequate, with good sanitation provision for workers including hot showers, toilets and access to drinking water.

GlobalGAP concluded that Indigo Star met “all the required quality standards relating to production, processing and hygiene”.