BEE FRIENDLY Label
To protect pollinators in almond orchards
Together we protect bees thanks to our almonds
Bees and almonds are a perfect example of nature in symbiosis. A nature where the almond flowers are the first and only source of nectar and pollen for the bees when they wake up from hibernation and where the bees, in turn, feed on and pollinate the almond flowers, thus allowing the flowers to turn into fruit.
This virtuous and singular circle is the most beautiful symbol of this nature that we all share. It is this nature of fragile balance that we must celebrate and protect together by being aware of the dangers threatening bees and almond orchards: pesticides, intensified agricultural practices and mono-cultures, diseases and climate change.
Bees, almonds and artisans form an essential alliance.
What is the BEE FRIENDLY Label?
Cacao Barry has become a partner of the BEE FRIENDLY label for all its almond-based products, following a strict audit of the orchards and agricultural practices of its farmers by a college of experts in bees, agriculture and biodiversity. BEE FRIENDLY, created in 2012, is a European association that brings together local beekeepers' organisations and stakeholders in the preservation of pollinating insects in agricultural environments.
The BEE FRIENDLY label aims to promote the work of pollinator-friendly farmers to the general public. It is awarded according to precise, measurable requirements that meet a set of 27 criteria, such as:
- Guaranteed traceability
- A strict framework for the use of pesticides: a list of prohibited molecules, the implementation of measures to protect pollinators during treatments, etc
- The establishment of biodiversity preservation zones
- Partnership with beekeepers' associations, or support for research projects
Hazelnuts, at the crossroads of the Mediterranean winds
Unlike almonds, hazelnuts are pollinated by the wind where the breeze distils the pollen from branch to branch, between the male and female flowers. Hazelnuts are thus strongly influenced by their environment and by the fragile balance of nature in which we all have a role to play. It is by respecting nature, its rhythms and its biodiversity (fauna, flora, micro-organisms, etc.); while being fully aware of our impact that we make a difference. For example, we know that hazelnuts have a high water requirement and that only a healthy and controlled management can make their cultivation respectful and sustainable.
Therefore, Cacao Barry requires its suppliers/farmers to undergo a regular audit according to the SAI Platform's Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA). The objective is to independently validate their sustainability and traceability efforts on the origin of their nuts, their farming practices and their commitment to environmental protection in the hazelnut orchards around our La Morella Nuts production site in Reus, Spain.
An ongoing effort: Piedmont pistachios and hazelnuts
We are currently working to extend the implementation of FSA practices to our Italian hazelnuts and Spanish pistachios in order to offer chefs a range of dried fruit that is entirely sustainably produced by 2023.
And now, get inspired!
Discover our collection of 100% pure pastes and pralines, reinvented to offer an infinite palette of flavours and textures to Chefs. Our delicious blends of almonds, hazelnuts and aromatic pistachios have inspired several Chocolate Academy chefs. Want to know how to make delicious creations with pralinés and pure pastes? Download now our BEE FRIENDLY booklet and join us to protect bees!