Fischer Farms secures Red Tractor and GlobalGAP accreditations

Fischer Farms has secured Red Tractor and GlobalGAP accreditations for its new site in Norwich, enabling the vertical farming business to sell its herbs and leafy greens to both domestic and international markets.

In addition, Fischer Farms has now met all the criteria to become an approved Sedex member, recognising its sustainability performance.

The stringent certifications give retailers and foodservice operators confidence that Fischer Farms’ produce has been grown to high standards of food safety, traceability and sustainability.

Fischer Farms in Norwich has begun distributing its first harvest of watercress, rocket and basil to customers including Fresh Direct. And the company said the accreditations would accelerate advanced discussions with retailers, bringing it one step closer to supplying its vertically farmed greens with supermarket shoppers across the country.

Red Tractor is a world-leading food assurance scheme that underpins the high standards of British food and drink. It forms the basis of buying and sourcing specifications for major supermarkets, household brands and restaurant chains in the UK.

Global GAP, meanwhile, is a trademark and set of standards for good agricultural practices and it demonstrates on-farm food safety and sustainability. It is a seal of excellence for the entire production process, from food hygiene and safety to water efficiency, waste management and worker welfare.

Tristan Fischer, founder and CEO of Fischer Farms, said: “Our new farm in Norwich – which is one of the largest vertical farms in the world – is now fully operational and open for business. Securing Red Tractor and Global GAP are the final pieces in the jigsaw, opening up a wealth of opportunities with retailers and new markets.

“As we strive to build a more resilient food supply chain in the UK, these accreditations demonstrate our commitment to safe, traceable and sustainable British food production.”