The Coconut Coalition of the Americas (CCA) has achieved a major milestone as the FDA officially reclassified coconuts, removing them from the tree nuts category in its latest food allergen guidance. This decision, outlined in the Questions and Answers Regarding Food Allergens, Edition 5, reflects scientific evidence showing that coconuts rarely cause severe allergic reactions, unlike tree nuts such as almonds or walnuts. The reclassification is a significant win for the coconut industry, enabling broader use in food manufacturing without allergen labeling restrictions.

Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines, in collaboration with key partners, successfully concluded the SDG Coco Project, a four-year initiative aimed at improving the socio-economic and environmental sustainability of the Philippine coconut industry. The project empowered 526 farmers across Laguna, Quezon, and Camarines Norte through training in sustainable practices, farm upgrading, and capacity building. Highlights include the establishment of three demonstration farms, two of which are now Coconut Learning Sites, and the development of educational resources to benefit more farmers nationwide. While the project has officially ended, its legacy of innovation and collaboration continues to inspire the next generation of coconut farmers.

Franklin Baker hosted farm and plant visits in Laguna for the Sustainable Coconut Partnership delegates during the recent Sustainable Coconut Roundtable. Participants witnessed coconut harvesting, enjoyed fresh coconut water, and toured Franklin Baker’s Sapphire Plant to see the coconut journey from farm to production. The event, focused on sustainability, concluded with a global conference promoting collaboration and best practices in the coconut industry.

Franklin Baker signed a Memorandum of Agreement with TESDA to empower Filipino coconut farmers through sustainable livelihood programs. The partnership focuses on skills development, enterprise training, and research initiatives to enhance coconut farming as a viable industry. CEO Ferdinand Dela Cruz highlighted their commitment to helping farmers succeed and ensure strong family farm succession. This collaboration supports Franklin Baker’s advocacy for sustainable growth and community empowerment.

Franklin Baker reaffirms its commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices as a proud member of Sedex. Their Sapphire Plant completed a Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA) last July 2024, ensuring compliance with Labor Standards, Health & Safety, Environmental practices, and Business Ethics. This audit highlights Franklin Baker’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, supporting its long-term sustainability goals for both its people and the environment.

James Zabala and Robert James Pujed from the Franklin Baker’s Diamond Plant in Davao del Sur secured the company’s first TOWER Award. Their innovative “Agitate to Operate” project enhanced coconut paring oil productivity by 30%, reduced costs, and improved safety. This award, honoring non-supervisory workers, was presented during Labor Day 2024 at Malacañang Palace, attended by President Marcos Jr. and DOLE representatives.

Franklin Baker’s Emerald Plant in Davao del Sur earned a prestigious Double A rating during the BRCGS Food Safety audit in June. This top-tier rating reflects excellence in hygiene, traceability, and quality systems, underscoring Franklin Baker’s commitment to world-class coconut product safety. Emerald Plant has been maintaining the highest food safety standards in producing various coconut products for over 50 years.