Research shows there are more than 1.66 million farmers and workers in fair trade certified organizations. About 23% of them are women. Together they help to produce high demand commodities like coffee, sugar, fruits and vegetables. Regardless of whether the market is ready for change, fair trade has impacted the way Americans shop. Grocery stores like Trader Joe’s are encouraging customers to choose organic and fair trade options one step at a time.
How Does Fair Trade Impact Farmers And Workers?
Fair trade is designed to protect and support “farmers, workers and their communities.” It ensures that farmers are compensated fairly, and farming conditions remain safe. In the U.S, the Fair Trade seal is black, green and white, and the small sticker can be found on many products. Although it’s effective, the sticker cannot guarantee that the system is always fair. As a shopper, you can end up spending more money on fair trade coffee than coffee that doesn't carry the seal. Unfortunately the coffee industry has struggled the most, with very few changes in farmer growth. Fair Trade USA has not been able to show the long-term positive impact, as the number of coffee buyers is limited. As a result, farmers can wind up selling a lower-quality coffee beans for the higher fair-trade price. Not all fair trade organizations exploit workers, but it is important to keep in mind when you're shopping for fair trade items.
Fair Trade Goods Are Stocked And Ready To Buy
There is a lot of good that comes from stores that supply fair trade products. As of 2017, the U.S. is the, “third largest market for fair trade goods.” When stores supply fair trade, they are recognizing the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals and the mission of Fair Trade USA. Men, women, young children and communities in need are able to benefit financially as well. Although profits are a small part, it is one way to help the next time you take a trip to the grocery store. Outside of fresh produce, common fair trade items include coffee, sugar, tea and chocolate. If you have a craving a sweet snack, Sunflower Seed Butter Cups with fair trade dark chocolate is one of the many treats sold in supermarkets. Trader Joe’s, for example, is a big contributor to fair trade, with over 30 choices of coffee to choose from. They sell their own fair trade organic Columbian coffee cups and an assortment of flavors, from fair trade organic Guatemalan to organic fair trade French roast.
While the future of fair trade is uncertain, there is still a high demand across grocery stores and markets. As it expands worldwide, it can become challenging to monitor all the conditions and regulations that take place in a community. When stores like Trader Joe’s take part in selling fair trade products, they are supporting the betterment of individuals across more than 70 countries.
Take Your House Warming Party To The Next Level With These Ideas
Over 30 million Americans move to a new home every year and with moving comes exciting possibilities that living in a new community entails. After settling in, why not celebrate your new home with a housewarming party? It’s a great way to make friends within the neighborhood, and it also gives you and your family a memorable way to mark your new beginnings. With a few strategic decorations, lively entertainment options, and the wholesome goodness of Trader Joe’s food choices, you can take your housewarming party to the next level with these ideas.
Give your home a welcoming vibe
After making sure that your new home is spic and span and everything is in the right place, the first thing that you need to do is to give your house a welcoming and festive vibe to set the mood for celebration. Fluffy rugs, soft cushions, and good lighting will encourage guests to make themselves at home, so create several sitting areas using these elements so everyone can relax and have conversations. For a touch of elegance, place a floor or tabletop water feature such as an indoor water fountain right in your entertainment space. It’s a great conversation piece, and a fountain also improves indoor air quality. Meanwhile, a large earthenware bowl filled with smooth stones, water, and floating candles placed on your living room table will add to the calming vibe of your space.
Serve easy to make yet tasty treats
Your grandma’s famous braised short ribs or the family’s super secret ravioli recipe may be surefire hits at every gathering, but you don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen making these dishes while your guests are having fun at your party. Instead, make easy yet tasty treats that everyone will enjoy. Create a charcuterie board with some sliced Trader Joe’s Applewood Smoked Ham, Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Sausage, and Stockmeyer Prosciutto, along with at least 3 varieties of cheeses, some fruit, crackers, and cut-up veggies. Your main dish can be pasta (provide at least 2 different sauces) paired with a meat dish, or you can set-up a salad and sandwich bar so everyone can help themselves to whatever they like. For drinks, Trader Joe’s Organic Iced Tea Lemonade is always a crowd pleaser. Don’t forget to have a few bottles of wine onhand to toast the occasion!
Make music and fun a priority
Music is a must at every party, so make sure to play a mix of new and old songs to get everybody in the zone. Place board games and cards at every sitting area so guests can play games, and play music videos on your TV (with the sound off) for a party vibe. Once everyone has let loose, break out the karaoke machine for added fun.
Moving to a new house can present lots of changes, so mark this new chapter in your life with a memorable party. Don’t overthink it-- the best parties are the ones where you and your guests get to eat, play, and have fun together, so try these tips and have a good time celebrating your new home!
