New policy prohibits sourcing from orchards linked to illegal deforestation in Michoacán, promoting sustainable practices in the avocado industry.
Mission Produce, Inc., a prominent global leader in the avocado industry, has announced a new policy to address illegal deforestation associated with avocado farming in Michoacán, Mexico.
The policy, which prohibits the sourcing of avocados from 279 orchards identified by the Ministry of Environment for the State of Michoacán as contributing to illegal deforestation, reflects the company’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability.
As John Pawlowski, Mission Produce’s President and Chief Operating Officer, noted:
“Illegal deforestation in Michoacán, where a significant majority of Mexico’s overall avocado production is from, is an important issue to our Company and our stakeholders.”
This policy aims to set a positive example in the industry, aligning with the company’s environmental priorities and responding to growing stakeholder concerns.
With a quarterly review process, Mission Produce will continuously assess additional orchards identified by local authorities as contributing to illegal deforestation.
This process involves reviewing reports from Michoacán’s Ministry of Environment and allows the company to adapt its approach, exploring further resources and methods to reinforce sustainable practices in its supply chain.
The company’s comprehensive commitment to sustainability includes ongoing efforts to ensure ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship.
Mission Produce has positioned itself as a key player in the global avocado market, servicing retail, wholesale, and foodservice clients in over 27 countries.
Since its founding in 1983, the company has built a vertically integrated network that encompasses all stages of the avocado supply chain, from sourcing to distribution. Its reach extends across key growing regions globally, with four advanced packing facilities in California, Mexico, Peru, and other countries, ensuring a year-round supply of premium avocados and other produce.
This infrastructure supports its global distribution network, which includes forward distribution centers in North America, China, Europe, and the UK. Through these centers, Mission offers value-added services like ripening, bagging, custom packing, and logistical management.
Mission Produce’s new policy, which can be accessed on the company’s website, signifies a broader move within the avocado industry to address the environmental challenges tied to agriculture.
