Lindt & Sprüngli achieves 100% Rainforest Alliance certification for cocoa sourcing  

SWITZERLAND – Swiss chocolatier Lindt & Sprüngli has confirmed that all of its cocoa sourcing is now covered by 100% Rainforest Alliance certification through the company’s dedicated Farming Program, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability strategy. 

The company said the Rainforest Alliance seal will be progressively introduced on product packaging across its permanent portfolio, where applicable, as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and demonstrate its commitment to responsible cocoa sourcing. 

Rainforest Alliance is a global non-profit organisation that develops the Sustainable Agriculture Standard and operates an international certification system for agricultural products. Under the programme, certified farms are required to meet standards covering social, environmental and economic issues, while receiving technical support and training. 

According to Lindt & Sprüngli, Rainforest Alliance certification provides the baseline for its cocoa sourcing activities. However, the company noted that it will continue investing in initiatives under its Farming Program that go beyond certification requirements. 

These activities include promoting agroforestry practices, supporting forest protection and restoration, investing in community development projects and implementing a Living Income Pilot Program aimed at helping participating cocoa farmers narrow the living income gap. 

The announcement comes as companies across the confectionery and wider food industries prepare for the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which is scheduled to take effect at the end of 2026 following several years of delays. 

Businesses are also facing increasing regulatory requirements related to due diligence, social responsibility and human rights standards, which are advancing through the European Parliament. 

As part of its action plan for the next four years, Lindt & Sprüngli said it intends to work closely with industry organisations and development partners to strengthen sustainability efforts across its supply chain. 

The company plans to jointly develop implementation plans with the International Cocoa Initiative (ICI), which focuses on improving child protection and labour practices within cocoa-growing communities. 

Lindt & Sprüngli also said it will collaborate with Helvetas, an organisation specialising in farmer livelihood programmes and environmental projects in Madagascar. 

Through these initiatives, the company aims to build on the foundation provided by Rainforest Alliance certification while addressing broader challenges affecting cocoa-producing communities and ecosystems. 

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