Chilehuevos Leads the Way: Unveiling a Quality Seal for its Members
In a groundbreaking move, Chilehuevos, the leading egg producers’ association in Chile, has launched a comprehensive quality seal program to recognize its members who have demonstrated excellence in three key areas: animal welfare, environmental protection, and food safety. This innovative initiative aims to elevate the standards of the egg industry and provide consumers with the assurance of high-quality, sustainably produced eggs.
A Seal of Approval
Seven Chilehuevos-affiliated producers have already earned the coveted quality seal, after successfully completing the rigorous certification process. These companies, which include Avícola Santa Elvira, Agrícola Santa Marta de Liray, Huevos Coliumo, Huevos de Talca, Avícola Andina, Avícola Valle Central, and Avícola y Comercial El Toco, can now proudly display the seal on their egg cartons, packaging, and communication materials.
Raising the Bar
The Chilehuevos quality seal is a testament to the association’s commitment to sustainable and responsible egg production. The final objective is to obtain high-standard eggs, produced thanks to healthy animals, in sustainable production systems that care for consumers, sector workers, the environment, and local communities near the production facilities, explains Patricio Kurte, the general manager of Chilehuevos.
A Comprehensive Approach
The quality seal program is built upon the foundation of Chilehuevos’ Code of Ethics, which requires its members to adhere to the association’s Sustainability Policy. This policy encompasses the three pillars of the certification program: animal welfare, environmental protection, and food safety.
The seal is also aligned with the industry’s Cleaner Production Agreements (APLs) and the Animal Welfare Best Practices Guide, developed in collaboration with the Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG), academics, and specialized non-governmental organizations. Additionally, the program incorporates the prerequisites of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, a widely recognized food safety management framework.
Expanding the Reach
Chilehuevos encourages its members who have not yet obtained the certification to undergo the necessary audits and secure the quality seal. Furthermore, the association welcomes non-member producers who are interested in the program, provided they meet the requirements and pay the associated membership fees.
Conclusion
Chilehuevos’ quality seal program is a groundbreaking initiative that sets a new standard for the egg industry in Chile. By recognizing producers who prioritize animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and food safety, the association is paving the way for a more responsible and transparent egg production landscape. This move not only benefits consumers but also supports the long-term viability of the industry and the communities it serves.
