Bangalore based Source Natural Foods and Herbal Supplements, a subsidiary of Sriveda Sattva (Sri Sri Tattva), which manufactures a comprehensive range of Ayurvedic, Health & Dietary Supplements and Food products, has entered into an MOU with Verstegen Spices & Sauces, one of the most trusted brands of Spices & Sauces in the EU.
The MOU’s objective is to set up a verified and safe food supply chain of regenerative spices (agroforestry and natural farming) and explore together new market opportunities. Both companies have agreed to start with a red chili-based agroforestry system in Andhra Pradesh, India, and promote it widely with other spices in the future. The chilies, coming from a regenerative source, will be procured directly from the farmers and processed into the final product. Sustainability and traceability form the foundation of this business relationship.
Verstegen has been a sustainable business leader and was elected as the most sustainable company in the Netherlands. Source Natural has collaborated with the Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust. It has done extensive work to train farmers in sustainable farming methods, such as natural and organic farming. Having a good connection with local farmers in the region, the company would be able to source high-quality products and ensure that the farmers earn a premium over the market rate for their high-quality crop, a result of the special methods of cultivation applied by them, the company said in a press statement.
Arvind Varchaswi, managing director, Source Natural said, “Sustainability and protection of environment is a cause that has been very close to our heart. We are happy to enter into this relationship with a like-minded and esteemed organization like Verstegen. We will leverage our network to source the highest quality Indian spices from farmers implementing sustainable agricultural practices. We are sure that this will encourage more farmers to adopt such practices and benefit from the endeavor.”
Michel Driessen, chief executive officer, Verstegen, said, “We are very proud to sign this MoU with Source Natural. This collaboration enables us to extend our global sustainable ambition with a project in India. To find a partner with a mutual goal, namely successful entrepreneurship with farmers and biodiversity, is magnificent. We are more than excited to start this project together with Source Natural and we truly hope that many people will benefit from this endeavor.”
