SIMPLi

Sarela Herrada’s connection to traditional indigenous farming began in her childhood. Raised on her family’s organic chicken farm in Lima, Peru, where her father collaborated with Amazonian farming communities, she gained insights into regenerative agricultural methods practiced for centuries.

So, when she and her partner Matt Cohen founded SIMPLi Foods, their commitment to environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and ethical sourcing took precedence. A core aspect of their goal is to enhance public understanding of regenerative organic agriculture and the advantages of sustainable food. Herrada notes, “Our aim is to inform consumers about why high-quality ingredients benefit both health and the environment.”

The vision of SIMPLi is to transform the global food supply chain to be “more transparent, sustainable, and efficient.” They further add, “We collaborate directly with small local farming communities worldwide, providing them access to international markets while backing their social and environmental efforts.”

Research from the Yale Center for Business and the Environment indicates that traditional farming techniques significantly exacerbate global warming. However, it also highlights that “regenerative agriculture could be pivotal in addressing the climate crisis.”

Cohen and Herrada aspire for their enterprise to contribute positively in this regard. “It’s impossible to engage with farmers without discussing climate change. It impacts everyone on this planet,” Herrada asserts. “We want consumers to feel confident that purchasing our products not only benefits them but also contributes to reducing their carbon footprints and supports farmers.”

Regenerative Organic Alliance

For many shoppers, the “Certified Organic” label remains the highest standard when selecting food and personal care items. In contrast, the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA) aims to elevate this with their “Regenerative Organic Certified” (ROC) label. Building upon the USDA standards, ROC incorporates additional criteria for soil health, animal welfare, and social equity.

The ROA, led by Executive Director Elizabeth Whitlow, comprises specialists in farming, ranching, soil health, animal welfare, and fairness for producers and workers. Their goal is to establish long-lasting solutions to “the climate crisis, industrial farming, and disjointed rural economies.” Whitlow emphasizes the importance of helping consumers recognize the significance of supporting responsible growers, ranchers, brands, and enterprises. “The ROC seal assures consumers that their purchases positively impact multiple facets: environmental, ethical, and social,” she states.

“My commitment lies in revitalizing the Earth’s living crust,” affirms Whitlow. “The remedy to our contemporary ecological challenges is right below us. It’s time to cultivate as if the world truly relies on it!”

This article originally appeared in the November-December 2023 issue of up7op magazine (US edition).