Trading Hearts

Valentine’s Day is typically a day of indulgence whether it’s a big dinner, lots of sweets, or expensive gifts for your loved ones. Personally, I’d rather spread the love out all year long. And truly it’s the little things that matter. Equal Exchange, an organization that aims to create big change through fair-trade coffee, tea, chocolate, and snacks, lets you help out the world as you help out yourself with delicious foods!

In time for Valentine’s Day, they’re offering lots of specials for products I definitely approve of, including an organic chocolate and coffee pairing gift bag packaged in 100% recyclable materials for $34.95 each. I don’t think a day goes by when I don’t have coffee and/or chocolate.  In addition, their other chocolate bars are all on-sale until February 14th. You can also spread the love with healthy dark-chocolate minis, which are made with organic cacao and have only 25 calories each. Your heart will thank you.

So what exactly is fair trade? It’s a social movement to help farmers mostly in developing countries. Twenty years ago, most of these farming coops wouldn’t be able to compete with big, private traders. But now companies like Equal Exchange have direct relationships with food coops in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and even in the U.S. to help optimize their crop and keep them and their communities flourishing. Reading about these coops, the struggling farmers, and their commitment to quality really made me want to contribute in some way. I thought you might like it, too!

Check out their Valentine’s specials and other, economic and socially conscious products at: http://shop.equalexchange.com/

Comments (3)

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Tuesday February 9, 2010 Kris Warrenburg wrote:

... My favorite fair trade product is Peet's Coffee.

Tuesday February 9, 2010 Kim wrote:

... I love Yuban's Original Coffee Blend for many reasons. First of all it is relatively inexpensive compared to other coffee brands. Secondly, it supports Latin and South American farms and is certified with the Rainforest Alliance. Yuban coffee comes in a canister that is made from more than 50% of recycled materials!

Tuesday February 9, 2010 Lauren wrote:

... I am a chocolate and coffee addict as well! I love knowing that there are eco-friendly ways to consume my 2 favorite things!

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