National Nonprofit Recognizes Wilcox Farms With Valued Food Alliance Certification

Independent certification program acknowledges company for socially and environmentally responsible agricultural practices

ROY, Wash., June 18 /PRNewswire/ — Wilcox Farms Inc., the century-old Northwest egg producer, has received the esteemed Food Alliance certification for its cage-free and organic egg production. Food Alliance, a national non-profit organization, offers the most comprehensive certification program for sustainably produced food in North America. Farms and processing facilities receiving the certification are audited regularly by an independent, third party inspector and judged on safe and fair working conditions, humane treatment of animals and protection of the environment.

Farms must meet rigorous criteria demonstrating the following standards to receive Food Alliance certification: safe and fair working conditions; healthy and humane treatment of animals; no hormones or non-therapeutic antibiotics; no genetically modified crops or livestock; reduced pesticide use and toxicity; soil and water quality protection; wildlife habitat enhancement and protection; and continuous improvement of management practices. Eggs carrying the Food Alliance Certified seal must come from cage-free hens fed a vegetarian diet.

Wilcox Farms, celebrating their centennial year, understands their role in being good stewards of the land, environment and as an employer. This certification reinforces the company’s vision.

“Literally, generations of families have worked for Wilcox Farms throughout the years,” explains Linda Thomas, chief executive officer. “This certification not only recognizes us for our sustainable farming practices but also for our belief in treating our employees well.”

Food Alliance, in auditing Wilcox Farms, noted the substantial wages and benefits provided to employees – which are uncommon to the agricultural industry. A review showed that the company pays better than minimum wage to all their employees. In addition, the company provides medical, dental and vision insurance, as well as a matching 401k plan.

Voluntary certification is granted by Food Alliance to farms and ranches in Canada, Mexico, and 23 U.S. states managing over 5.6 million acres of range and farmland. The organization enjoys support from leaders in both organic and conventional agriculture, from retail and wholesale food businesses, government agencies and organizations representing farm labor, animal welfare and the environment.

About Food Alliance

Food Alliance is a 10-year old national nonprofit that provides third-party certification of sustainable agricultural and food handling practices. Food Alliance works with farmers, ranchers, food processors and distributors, verifying marketing claims so consumers can trust their food is grown and processed using sustainable practices. Food Alliance addresses a full range of concerns for labor, animal welfare, and the environment. As a sustainability standard, Food Alliance also requires continual improvement of practices over time. For more information about Food Alliance, visit www.foodalliance.com.

About Wilcox Farms Inc.

A family-owned business, Wilcox Farms Inc. was started in Roy, Wash. in 1909 by Judson and Betty Wilcox. The company operates two egg production facilities – in Roy and Aurora, Ore. – and is one of the leading egg producers in the Northwest. In addition to shell eggs, Wilcox also provides liquid eggs to food retailers, bakeries and food service operations. For more information about Wilcox Farms Inc., visit www.wilcoxfarms.com.

SOURCE Wilcox Farms Inc.