What is ethical sourcing?
Ethical food sourcing is a complex concept that goes further than basic procurement of food ingredients – it embraces a commitment to creating a food supply chain that is equitable, sustainable and transparent. More than a trend, it’s driving a shift in the global food system. Increasingly consumers are purchasing products that don’t just provide nutritional benefits, but have a positive social and environmental impact.
For us, it’s about focusing on the journey from farm to table. Ethical sourcing is the process of ensuring that the sourced ingredients are procured ethically and sustainably. This references the welfare of employees, animals and communities, alongside sustainably related practices; conservation of non-renewable natural resources and energy, non-polluting, and economically efficient means of production.
Ethical sourcing – providing a competitive edge.
The shift in ethical food sourcing is predominantly consumer-driven. It’s more than the moral obligations of a business – it’s core to building consumer trust and loyalty as more shoppers commit to aligning their purchasing decisions with personal values. Food products manufactured with ethically sourced ingredients often meet higher quality standards and health outcomes. This translates to increased customer satisfaction.
A Nielsen survey (2024) reported that 55% of global respondents value brands with ethical business practices that impact environmentally and socially, and are willing to pay more for these products. Food brands that can authentically express their commitment to ethical sourcing experience increased brand loyalty – It’s leading more food manufacturers to consider the long-term benefits.
Why ethical food sourcing matters?
Ethically sourced ingredients are generally of higher quality because they are produced under more stringent standards of food quality, sustainability and care for the environment. This higher quality reflects in premium product which is healthier, tastier and more appealing to consumers. Sustainable sourcing practices reduce environmental impact, support conservation of biodiversity, and enable long-term viability of food sources. Companies committed to ethical sourcing are committed to the health of their consumers and to the sustainability of the wider food system.
Ethical approaches at Taranaki Bio Extracts
At Taranaki Bio Extracts we believe in sustainable and ethical nutrition – for us this is about valuing and creating value, from the entire animal, to create rich nutrition. We believe that a healthy eco-system is a good part of our responsibility – it’s all about how we relate to our natural environment. As a New Zealand B2B food manufacturer and exporter, this extends from our relationship with the land, and animal welfare practices, to the way we do business, and the products that result. It’s about meeting the needs of our customers, and their customers, without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.
- Ethically sourced raw materials: Both historically, and for many cultures, respecting the life of animals sourced for food means using and appreciating every part. When the processors have removed the prime cuts, we know there’s special value and richness hidden in the meaty beef bones. Our raw materials are ethically sourced – this means our meaty beef bones come from farms and meat processors that comply with New Zealand Animal Welfare legislation.
- Animal welfare is an ethical issue and a high priority in New Zealand: New Zealand cattle are raised free-range on a pasture-based diet. This pasture-based farming helps our animals stay healthy and reflects their ethical and humane treatment. New Zealand’s strict biosecurity and quality control processes, and geographic isolation have resulted in an animal disease-free status recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health.
- GMO-Free: The release of GMOs into the environment has the potential to cause ecological damage and is viewed by many as an ethical issue. Our products are GMO free – 100% natural. No genetically modified crops can be grown in New Zealand – it’s against the law.
To learn more about our ethical approach visit https://taranakibioextracts.com/sustainability/
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