Slave Free Chocolate

Easter is a time for celebration, and for many, chocolate Easter eggs are a cherished tradition. However, the chocolate industry often hides a darker side, with issues like climate change, low wages, and unethical practices affecting cocoa farmers. Here's how we can make more ethical choices this Easter:

The Hidden Costs of Chocolate

Extreme weather caused by climate change has devastated cocoa production, leading to rising costs and forcing many farmers to abandon cocoa farming. Some have turned to dangerous alternatives like illegal gold mining due to the lack of a sustainable living wage.

The Fairtrade Label: A Changing Standard

While the Fairtrade logo once guaranteed that 50% of ingredients were Fairtrade-certified, this threshold has dropped to just 20%. This makes it less reliable as a guide for ethical chocolate. However, there are still brands committed to fair treatment and sustainability.

Ethical Chocolate Brands to Support

Here are some brands making a difference:

1. Tony’s Chocolonely – This brand is dedicated to eradicating child slavery in chocolate production. Their range includes delicious chocolate bars and Easter eggs. Explore their full range here and their Easter eggs here.

2. Hotel Chocolat – Known for luxurious chocolates, Hotel Chocolat also emphasizes ethical practices, from sustainable farming to fair treatment of workers. Learn more about their ethics and sustainability here.

3. The Real Easter Egg – Produced by The Meaningful Chocolate Company, these eggs include the Easter story and are made from Fairtrade chocolate. Check out their website here.

A Call to Action

Pope Francis has called on us to help eradicate modern-day slavery. By choosing ethical chocolate brands, we can enjoy Easter treats while supporting justice and sustainability.

Let this Easter be a celebration of renewal—not just for us, but for the communities that make chocolate possible.