Produce industry' leaders fight labor abuse

A group of North America's largest produce industry's have announced a plan to stop labor abuse in Mexico. The "Ethical Charte" was written up in order to serve as a guideline for retailers, producers and distributors to better treat their employees. While not legally binding, the rules encourage companies to follow the laws of their countries and to meet international expectations as consumers grow ever more knowledgeable about where their produce comes from.

“Aware that our industry can attract vulnerable workers, we expect adherence to the law,” the charter reads. “We believe that workers deserve to be treated with dignity, and we are committed to respecting workers’ rights and protecting worker safety.”

Around 50% of produce consumed in the United States comes from mexico where previously an investigation by the Los Angeles Times found widespread labor abuse. The plan is to create an honor code between companies to help carry each other to better labor rights.

source: latimes.com

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