By only processing Fino Arriba beans from shade-grown plantations, Hoja Verde is supporting not only dozens of small farmers and their families, but also the environment. Shade-grown cacao farms, which border secondary rainforest, benefit from a wealth of nearby pollinators and agro-ecological conditions, which obviates the use of chemicals. Farmers cultivate their cacao beneath valuable rainforest trees, while also intermingling a wealth of other crops, such as plantains, yucca, papaya, guava or lime, alongside their cacao. This is better for both the farmer and the environment in the long term. Our company is proud to be building enduring and equitable relationships with small farmers’ organizations in these bio-diverse regions of Ecuador.

Not only are we internally committed to both the environment and people, we are certified to the highest standards.  The Fair Trade Certified™ label guarantees strict economic, social and environmental criteria were met in the production and trade of our agricultural product, Hoja Verde Dark Chocolate. Fair Trade Certification is currently available in the for coffee, tea and herbs, cocoa and chocolate, fresh fruit, flowers, sugar, rice, and vanilla. Fair Trade Certification empowers farmers and farm workers to lift themselves out of poverty by investing in their farms and communities, protecting the environment, and developing the business skills necessary to compete in the global marketplace.

One other evident commitment to the environment is our Rainforest Alliance certification. This is a comprehensive process that promotes and guarantees improvements in agriculture and forestry. We are proud to display the honor of this independent seal of approval, ensuring that our goods were produced in compliance with strict guidelines protecting the environment, wildlife, workers and local communities.

From cacao bean to an exquisite chocolate bar