Univeg Katopé UK has imported the first-ever Chilean Fairtrade grapes into the UK, according to a report on Freshinfo.com.
The grapes were sourced from Mifruta, a group of some 28 growers, which has supplied Fairtrade raisins for many years but introduced table grapes only in 2009 following a visit by Univeg’s David Maris.
“We wanted to establish Fairtrade grape supply from Chile so we worked with the Fairtrade Foundation in the UK to establish the link,” Mr Maris said.
“We already have Fairtrade grapes from South Africa and Egypt and this will give us a seasonal extension to that,' he added.
Plans are already reportedly underway to use the Fairtrade premium to provide education and scholarship funds for producers’ children or grandchildren, as well as meeting medical expenses.
Univeg is looking at expanding its portfolio from Chile to include Fairtrade avocados, the report added.
