Small Producers' Symbol (SPP)

The Small Producers' Symbol (SPP) is unique in the world of fair trade certifications. Founded in 2006 and managed by FUNDEPPO (Foundation of Organized Small Producers), it’s the only certification created, owned, and governed entirely by small-scale farmer cooperatives.

Here’s what makes SPP special:

Farmer Ownership: Decisions are made by the farmers themselves, ensuring their voices are at the forefront.
High Price Guarantees: Producers receive prices significantly above market rates, setting SPP apart from other certifications.
Agroecological Focus: By prioritizing sustainable farming practices, SPP supports both environmental preservation and local ecosystems.

SPP ensures that the goods on your grocery shelves—like coffee, cocoa, and spices—are crafted with care, fairness, and integrity.

Key Features of SPP

1. Producer-Owned and Governed

The SPP operates with small farmer cooperatives as majority stakeholders, holding 4 out of 6 governance seats. This structure ensures that every policy, process, and standard reflects the farmers' needs.

2. Higher Price Standards

Producers under SPP receive prices that are $20/100lbs higher than typical Fair Trade rates for staple products like coffee. This commitment to fair pricing ensures:

Farmers can cover production costs and invest in growth.
Greater financial security for producer communities.

3. Agroecological Excellence

SPP-certified farmers emphasize sustainable agricultural practices, maintaining cycles that protect the earth while improving yields.

Key practices include:

Resource conservation (water, soil, and biodiversity).
Minimal chemical additives.
Organic and regenerative farming techniques wherever possible.

4. Direct Buyer Requirements

Unlike other systems, SPP certification mandates commitments from buyers to ensure long-term relationships and continued support for producers.

Buyers must:

Increase procurement from SPP farmers year-over-year, starting with 5% and progressing to 25% over time.
Adopt a collaborative approach to market fluctuations, ensuring stable demand and incomes for farmers.

Certification Requirements

For Producers

To qualify for SPP, producer organizations must meet strict cooperative requirements. These include:

Majority ownership by small-scale farmers or artisans.
Democratic organization and decision-making structures.
Adherence to agroecological principles.

For Buyers

Buyers must commit to not only purchasing goods from SPP cooperatives but also fostering long-term growth through capacity building, transparent contracts, and adherence to minimum price guarantees.

Certified Products

SPP certifies a variety of products, with a core focus on:

Coffee: The flagship of SPP certification.
Cocoa: Supporting ethical chocolate production.
Sugar and Honey: Sustainably sourced from small farms.
Quinoa and Spices: Offering diverse and unique pantry staples.

Certification Process

The SPP certification process is thorough and designed to protect the integrity of the program.

Application and Self-Evaluation

Producer organizations submit detailed applications and evaluate their own compliance with SPP standards.
External Certification Review

Independent evaluators, such as BIOLATINA and MAYACERT, perform rigorous on-site audits assessing everything from pricing to environmental practices.
Buyer Registration

Both producers and their buyers must register with SPP to create a fully traceable system from farm to shelf.
Renewals and Monitoring

Certification is renewed regularly, with ongoing audits ensuring compliance and continuous improvement.

How to Identify SPP-Certified Products

Buying SPP-certified products is a straightforward way to support small-scale farmers directly.

Look for the Logo

The SPP logo—a stylized sun and hands—is prominently displayed on certified products. Its design reflects a celebration of shared effort and sustainable farming practices.

Explore Trusted Retailers

SPP-certified goods are often found in specialty coffee shops, ethical stores, and select online marketplaces that prioritize fair trade. Look for partner brands like Equal Exchange and Just Us Coffee that support the SPP mission.

Why Choose SPP-Certified Products?

1. Support Small-Scale Farmers

By choosing SPP, you directly benefit smallholder farmers and cooperatives, fostering equity and empowerment.

2. Invest in Sustainability

SPP-certified goods incorporate agroecological principles, reducing environmental harm while building resilient ecosystems.

3. Promote Fair Prices

Your purchases ensure farmers are paid fairly, helping communities thrive beyond the uncertainty of volatile commodity markets.

With SPP, every item in your grocery bag tells a story of perseverance, ethics, and hope.

Dig Deeper

Want to learn more about SPP and discover where to shop certified goods? Explore these resources:

Your PantryPal Takeaway

The Small Producers’ Symbol proves that when farmers lead the way, everyone wins. From higher prices to sustainable practices and empowered communities, SPP stands as a beacon of what fair trade can truly accomplish.

At PantryPal, we celebrate brands and certifications rooted in fairness and respect. By choosing SPP-certified products, you’re taking a stand for small-scale farmers who deserve a bigger voice on the global stage.

It’s not just about buying better—it’s about building a better world with every purchase. What story will you bring to your pantry today?

About This Certification