Chilean grapes

Dole Food Company has announced that its Huelquen Farm in Chile has been successfully audited to the Sustainable Agriculture Network Standard and is now Rainforest Alliance-certified, Perishable News reported.

Huelquen Farm, located in Paine, Chile, grows 100ha of grapes under the Dole label, as well as for private labels.

Huelquen Farm mixes traditional varieties like Crimson Seedless, Flame Seedless, Thompson Seedless and Red Globe with new varieties such as Great Green, Moon Balls and Timco.

The Rainforest Alliance is an international non-profit organisation with over 30 years' experience in the development and promotion of sustainable standards for agriculture.

The standard is aimed at conserving biodiversity and natural resources and promoting the well-being of workers, their families and their communities.

“This certification that affirms how our farming practices and farm management have evolved is a great achievement for us,” said Francisco Chacon, president of Dole Diversified. “We want to do our part as a good farmer and employerto make the world a better place. That commitment resonates with our workers and our consumers, and is also important for our partner retail customers.”