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ENL Agri
Sustainable and diversified local vegetable production
Like many others, ENL Agri has had to adapt its approach in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The agribusiness division of the ENL group already holds the Made in Moris label and is adjusting its vegetable operations to offer more products with a positive environmental impact.
“Our market share has inevitably shrunk recently. The island’s hotels were closed and household purchasing power has declined. Our approach was therefore to identify the changing consumer needs in order to better respond to them. We have reduced the production volume and diversified our products by adding asparagus and sweet potatoes, among others,” says ENL Agri’s CEO, Olivier Baissac.
“Above all, this year has taught us that our import dependency puts our food resources at risk,” he adds. Our country has been import-dependent for a long time but it is a stark reminder that we need to change our consumption habits, which determine demand. Price is often the deciding factor in any purchase, but we also need to think about the consequences of that purchase. What are the carbon footprint and ethical impacts of our fresh produce purchases?
Made in Moris and much more
ENL Agri produces sugarcane, but also vegetables. This production currently amounts to 1,700+ tonnes and includes solanaceous plants (potatoes, tomatoes and peppers), legumes (green beans), salads (lettuce, cabbage and leeks) and climbing plants (pumpkins and sweet potatoes). You have probably come across them in supermarkets under the Field Good brand.
These fresh products are, above all, grown through sustainable agriculture, a more environmentally friendly method of cultivation using fewer chemicals than traditional agriculture. The land is used in a more sustainable way and the result is a healthier product.
Choosing this type of product also means supporting a philosophy of cooperation. ENL Agri actually supports various small farmers, to whom part of the production
is subcontracted. Buying a branded product also means supporting an entire production chain, from cultivation to marketing and packaging. Finally, production surpluses are sometimes sent to the NGO, FoodWise for distribution to vulnerable families.
In the current challenging times, it is therefore essential to make choices that boost local trade. These seemingly minor choices can empower us all while having a positive impact on the economy, the environment and society.
72 MOKAZINE / NO 3 / 2021