Naperville, Illinois-based KeHE Distributors has signed an exclusive partnership with Rodale Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding the regenerative organic agriculture movement through research, farmer training and education.
The collaboration between KeHE and Rodale Institute will support the advancement of organic farming and regenerative practices and products in the food industry. These practices prioritize building soil health as a way to enhance the health of people and the planet.
“We are extremely excited about our partnership with KeHE,” said Annie Brown, VP of development at Rodale Institute.
“As like-minded market innovators, we are joining forces to continuously improve organic and regenerative organic farming practices and advance new learnings from the labs and farms to exciting new products for retailers and consumers.”
With this partnership, KeHE will be better equipped to support the development of sustainable food products.
“Natural, organic, fresh and specialty food sales continue to outpace traditional grocery items, and this is fueled by consumer demand for healthier and more sustainably produced food,” said Amy Kirtland, EVP of innovation and growth at KeHE.
“This partnership allows us to continue to support best-in-class organic farming practices while providing customers with superior products – it’s a win/win for all and we are extremely excited about working together.”
Rodale Institute co-created the Regenerative Organic Certification that prohibits toxic synthetic chemicals and GMOs and focuses on soil health. Regenerative organic certification adds animal welfare and social fairness to its core certification criteria.
The organization’s research has also been instrumental in proving that organic systems are more resistant to extreme weather, use 45 percent less non-renewable energy and release 40 percent fewer carbon emissions. Additionally, a recent analysis found that on average, organically-produced foods pack 25 percent more nutrients than non-organically-produced products.
For more information on how KeHE serves retailers throughout the nation, visit kehe.com/retailers.
