ofi launches first spices sustainability strategy
Global ingredients supplier ofi (olam food ingredients) has launched ‘Spice Maps,’ its first comprehensive sustainability framework designed to secure the supply of high-priority spices against growing climate volatility and supply chain fragmentation.
Published alongside a significant update to its annual ‘Nut Trails’ impact report, the new strategy aims to build resilience in two of the world’s fastest-growing ingredient categories.
The move comes as food and beverage manufacturers increasingly demand verifiable sustainability data to support clean-label and plant-based product claims.
Both reports fall under ofi’s overarching ‘Choices for Change’ sustainability platform, aligning with the company’s 2030 targets and a newly validated Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) pathway.
Recognising that a “one-size-fits-all” approach fails in the complex global spice market, ofi has structured ‘Spice Maps’ around the unique agronomic and social challenges of six priority crops: pepper, chile, turmeric, onion, cassia, and coconut. The strategy spans operations in the US, Mexico, India, Egypt, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
The framework sets distinct 2030 targets tailored to local realities:
- Water stewardship in onions: With water scarcity becoming a critical risk for onion production, ofi is launching pilots for regenerative technologies in drought-prone regions of Egypt and the US.
- Climate resilience in pepper: to protect yield stability, the company is investing in infrastructure to help black pepper farmers in Vietnam and Cambodia adapt to erratic weather patterns and reduce on-farm emissions.
- Regenerative Chile farming: In India, the focus is on reducing chemical inputs. ofi is supporting farmers with modern agronomic practices to transition toward regenerative farming methods.
In its updated ‘Nut Trails’ report, ofi highlighted how artificial intelligence and automation are delivering tangible environmental benefits, particularly in the United States and Australia.
In California’s almond belt, the company has deployed AI-powered soil sensors to optimise irrigation schedules, ensuring water is used only when necessary. Furthermore, the implementation of “smart-spraying” technology has resulted in a massive reduction in chemical usage, cutting herbicide application by up to 80%.
Energy transition is also a major focus. The report reveals that solar power offset 56% of ofi’s Scope 1 emissions globally in 2024. A standout project is the new solar plant at the Kerabury Orchards in New South Wales, Australia, which now generates 83% of the site’s energy needs, eliminating approximately 5,500 tonnes of CO2e annually.
Burcu Turkay, global head of sustainability for Nuts and Spices at ofi, commented:
”By targeting the specific challenges facing farmers in each crop and country, we set goals that reflect local realities and track progress that matters to communities, landscapes, and our customers.
”We’re leveraging over 20 years of sustainability experience and deep farming relationships to create tailored solutions for the world’s biggest food and beverage brands — delivering both flavor and functionality, from clean-label spice blends to protein-rich nut ingredients.”
Beyond environmental metrics, the reports underscore ofi’s efforts to digitise the “first mile” of its supply chain to improve farmer livelihoods and traceability.
In 2024, an additional 4,000 cashew and hazelnut farmers were onboarded to ofi’s direct sourcing network, bringing the total to 47,988. Through its proprietary farmer information survey tool, more than 31,450 of these growers received targeted support.
Digital tools are also increasing market access. in Cambodia, 3,000 pepper farmers have adopted the ofi Direct app, a platform that connects them directly with buyers. This creates a fully traceable chain of custody and ensures fairer pricing structures for smallholders.
The company is also utilising its logistical reach for public health interventions. In Côte d’Ivoire, ofi deployed its award-winning geo-location technology to digitally screen 22,000 children for malnutrition, resulting in 370 referrals for life-saving treatment.
Turkay added that the ongoing investment in data systems and direct engagement at origin is “fundamental to building supply chains that are resilient, sustainable, and capable of meeting the evolving demands of our customers, while making a real difference for people and the planet.”
