EFI streamlines IPM audits, expands pollinator friendly resources

Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) announced updates to its integrated pest management (IPM) audit process aimed at helping growers meet retailer requirements while reducing audit complexity and costs.

The organization said it worked with certification bodies SCS Global Services and LRQA to train auditors to evaluate both EFI’s social responsibility standards and IPM standards during a single audit process. EFI said the combined approach is intended to reduce the need for separate audits and improve efficiency for growers seeking certification.

EFI also introduced new pollinator-focused educational resources and webinar programming during National Pollinator Month in June. The resources include a pollinator toolkit and a series of webinars focused on IPM implementation, pollinator health and retailer expectations.

According to EFI, retailer requirements related to pollinator protection and pesticide management continue to expand. Whole Foods Market requires fresh produce and floral suppliers to implement integrated pest management practices as part of its quality standards program.

Upcoming EFI webinars include:

• People and Pollinators: From the Field Up With Whole Foods Market on June 3
• People and Pollinators: Staying Committed to IPM With Whole Foods Market on June 24

EFI said the webinars are designed to help growers understand retailer expectations and explore practical approaches to IPM and pollinator stewardship.

Equitable Food Initiative is a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development and certification programs for agriculture operations. Its programs address areas including worker engagement, food safety, pest management and continuous improvement in agricultural production systems.