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REPORTS

ofi hazelnut operations in Türkiye: Milestone 1 Evaluation

Olam Food Ingredients (ofi) is one of the largest Turkish hazelnut suppliers, having joined the Fair Labor Association Agriculture Program in October 2012. ofi hazelnut operations in Türkiye operates an ingredients factory in Giresun and cracking facilities in various locations along the Turkish Black Sea coast. Headquartered in Istanbul, the company has an established presence in the region and procures hazelnuts from all growing areas in Türkiye. Over time, it has developed productive relationships with farmers, intermediary traders, and crackers in these regions. This report details FLA’s evaluation of ofi’s governance and internal alignment at the headquarters level for Milestone 1.

Highlights of ofi hazelnut operations in Türkiye’s Responsible Sourcing Program for Milestone 1- Governance and Internal Alignment include:

  • Strong Senior Management Commitment: ofi hazelnut operations in Türkiye’s comprehensive and strategic approach to sustainability, labor standards, and ethical sourcing across its global operations are underpinned by clear governance structures and leadership accountability. As a FLA member since 2012, the company actively integrates workplace labor standards into its business practices. ofi’s global head of sustainability for nuts oversees strategic direction, while the country manager ensures implementation. The sustainability department, comprising a multidisciplinary team of 16, works collaboratively to execute programs with financial and technical support.
  • Remediation: Key initiatives include the Hazelnut Trail Program, which focuses on eliminating child labor, promoting decent work, enhancing traceability, fostering gender equality, improving health and safety, advancing climate action, and building community partnerships. Through collaborations with civil society organizations, universities, and government agencies, the company has implemented 14 social and environmental sustainability projects since 2013. These projects include training for women workers, child labor prevention, and improving health and hygiene among seasonal agricultural workers.
  • Standards and Monitoring: ofi hazelnut operations in Türkiye’s sustainability programs are reinforced by robust policies, such as the Supplier Code and Sustainability Agreement, which outline standards for suppliers on labor rights, traceability, and ethical practices. The company evaluates supplier performance using detailed assessments and provides financial incentives to farmers and intermediaries based on compliance with sustainability criteria.