Frísia cooperatives receive certification for sustainable corn production

Sustainability, which is one of the values ​​of Cooperativa Frísia, has become a requirement of the market, which applies it in the manufacture of products for human consumption. Thus, eight members received the FSA certification (Farm Sustainability Assessment or Agricultural Sustainability Assessment, in Portuguese), being able to produce waxy corn in a sustainable way.

Frísia analyst, Priscila Azevedo, explains that a cooperative client required certification from members for all corn supplied to the company. “It uses waxy corn to produce other products, as an emulsifier, for example, an ingredient used in the manufacture of shampoo, toothpaste or even baby food,” she says.

The cooperative members received certification in Tibagi (PR), in May, at an event held by the cooperative. On the occasion, trophies were awarded in recognition of the commitment to sustainable corn production.

To obtain the certificate, says Priscila, they went through a complete checklist. In the evaluation, a document and procedure review is carried out, interviews with employees and stakeholders, assessments of agronomic, sustainability and social practices. Infrastructure is also analyzed, such as an area for hygiene, distance from the supply location, among others. 

Frisia Sustainable Farm Program

The cooperative, through the Frísia Sustainable Farm Program, carries out an initial diagnosis, an action plan and mentoring to implement the proposed improvements. Certification is divided into Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Of the eight members, two of them achieved the Silver level and the rest, Bronze. 

“By Fazenda Sustentável, an audit is carried out to create a diagnosis in order to understand the potential of the member for certification. He makes the necessary changes to the property to increase its level”, highlights the analyst. 

Fazenda Sustentável Frísia offers services to improve the management of rural properties, encouraging good environmental and labor practices. The team guides members in adapting their properties to obtain sustainability seals and certifications, increasing competitiveness in the market.