order to do this the farm, Stevia One Peru SAC, had to meet the rigorous standards of the Sustainable Agriculture Network that aim to conserve natural resources, protect wildlife and ensure the wellbeing of farm families.Certified farms curb deforestation, conserve soil and water, minimise use of pesticides, reduce waste and provide habitat for wildlife, while Workers benefit from safe working conditions, just wages, respectable housing and access to healthcare and education for their children.
Natural sweetners such as Stevia have enjoyed increased popularity in recent times, thanks to its low calorie and low carbohydrate content. Also known as sweet leaf, stevia is a bush that grows naturally in Peru and other South American countries, and a number of food and beverage brands, including Pepsi, Coca-Cola, and Australia's nudie, have introduced products comprising the 'natural' sugar alternative.
Located in the Moyobamba Province, San Marín Region, Stevia One Perú SAC includes three farms covering 750 hectares of land. As part of the certification process, the farm group worked to restore the land through reforestation and improved soil health by investing in irrigation and an organic fertiliser system. The farm also ensures the welfare of its 520 permanent workers and provides salary and wages above the national average.
"It has been an honuor to lead our farm group on the path to certification, adopting comprehensive standards for sustainability that have helped to improve the quality of life for our workers and neighbouring communities, as well as the environment," said Urbina Ribbeck, , CEO of Stevia One Perú SAC.
Stevia One Perú SAC produces an average of 10,000 kilograms of fresh leaf per year for each hectare of land. The farm group currently supplies its harvest to the European market, specifically Belgium, Germany and France, but plans to expand into the US market.
