Chocolate
It’s hard to imagine something as delicious as chocolate having a dark side, but this yummy treat isn’t always guilt-free. In Canada last year, nearly $47 million worth of cocoa products were imported. Chocolate can’t be grown locally because cacao will not grow in the Canadian climate. However, there are steps you can take to ensure that your treat is not only delicious but better for the planet. Start by looking for fair trade certification. This type of chocolate stems from particular cocoa farmers that are guaranteed fair wages and working conditions that won’t expose them to harmful chemicals and conditions. It also means their farming methods limit environmental impact. The Fairtrade Certified logo indicates that a product meets international fair trade standards set out by the Fair Trade Labeling Organizations International. Since conscious consumers began demanding more environmentally and socially responsible products, large companies such as Hershey’s and Nestle have taken note. So next time you need a choco-fix, reach for a responsible option. It may not alleviate the damage to your waistline, but it certainly will have less harmful effects on the planet.
Delight Handmade Chocolates
Nov 2011
Delight sells handmade organic and fair trade chocolates and ice cream at their Queen West location. Chocolate sourced from La Siembra cooperative, a leading North American Fair Trade organization, is turned into delectable confections that will delight Torontonians and visitors alike.
ChocoSol Traders Sinfully Raw Vanilla Bar
Nov 2011
At ChocoSol, pedal power is used to grind the chocolate used in their Sinfully Raw Vanilla bar. The packaging used is 100% biodegradable and, better yet, litterless for those who bring their own containers to ChocoSol’s downtown headquarters or one of their stalls at local farmers markets. ChocoSol’s line of chocolate drinks and chocolate bars More >
Soma Truffles
Nov 2011
Soma chocolate is not exclusively fair trade and organic, but they do adhere to these standards in many of their chocolate confections. Their chocolate is specifically sourced from regions where responsible practices may be used, but farmers cannot afford certification. They also source from places such as Haiti to help farmers create a viable business More >
Camino Mint Dark Chocolate
Nov 2011
Camino’s philosophy is simple; in everything they do, they strive to have a positive impact on people and the planet. While the featured Mint Dark Chocolate bar is made in Switzerland, Camino has recently launched a line of chocolate bars made in Peru, where cocoa is originally sourced. This means more revenue remains in hands More >
Giddy Yoyo Raw Chocolate Ginger Bar
Nov 2011
In a facility located just outside of Orangeville, this chocolate is made with certified organic ingredients and a focus on energy efficient practices. While Giddy Yoyo is not fair trade certified, they have direct relationships with their cocoa farmers and pay above standard fair trade rates. They use biodegradable shipping containers and all chocolate wrappers More >
The Chocolateria Sea Turtles
Nov 2011
Located in Roncesvalles, this chocolate maker creates delicious confections ranging from chocolate dipped potato chips to sea turtle-shaped chocolates and salted caramels. They use minimal and recycled packaging whenever possible, and are known to encourage customers to eat right in the store! The Chocolateria carries several types of organic chocolate bars.
