Oct 16, 2012 10:47 AM

Testa Produce has announced that it is a founding participant in Greener Fields Together, a groundbreaking, industry-wide sustainability and local produce initiative launched recently.

The foodservice industry’s first comprehensive, national farm-to-fork sustainability program, Greener Fields Together has two primary goals: to create and commit to continuous sustainability improvements at each touch point in the produce supply chain, and to ensure the availability and safety of local produce for operators in all segments.

Administered by PRO*ACT, a supplier of fresh produce to the foodservice industry, Greener Fields Together is being brought to market through PRO*ACT’s national network of independently owned distributor partners, including Testa Produce in Chicago and surrounding markets.

Beginning with farmers, Greener Fields Together targets and will measure “green” activities in areas including energy use, water and waste management, pesticide/herbicide use, packaging, and transportation. Farmers large and small partnering with PRO*ACT at the national level and Testa Produce at the local level will be expected to make continuous improvements in these and other areas. Independent, third-party audits will verify that positive steps are being taken.

Participating distributors have also pledged to make continuous sustainability improvements and to build long-term partnerships with local farms—including financially supporting local farmers’ food safety education and certification efforts.

Hospitality operators are eligible to become part of the initiative and display the Greener Fields Together emblem. This represents their commitment to the Greener Fields Together produce supply chain and to continuous sustainability improvements in their operations.

For more information on Greener Fields Together, visit www.greenerfieldstogether.org.