the eostre charter

Eostre is an organic producer co-operative supplying fresh and processed organic food direct from our members in the East of England and partner producers and co-operatives from the UK and Europe.

Eostre believes that a fair, ecological and co-operative food system is vital for the future of farming, the environment and a healthy society. Direct, open relationships between producers and consumers build bridges between communities in towns, rural areas and other countries, creating a global network of communities, not a globalised food system of isolated individuals. Eostre aims to

- Supply independent retailers and processors; consumer co-ops and buying groups; partner organic producer co-operatives and the public sector

- Provide the highest quality seasonal produce at fair prices for the producer and consumer, to enable consumers of all incomes to have the best food the earth can offer

- Allow all staff and members to play an active role in the operation of the company and receive full rights; to encourage co-operative working among its members and between the co-op and its customers

- Operate with complete transparency, giving full information about the production and distribution chain

- Source all produce from other UK and European regions from socially responsible producers and co-ops actively promoting local, direct and co-operative marketing. Outside Europe we seek to work with Fair Trade producers

- Favour local, seasonal produce, supplemented by products from known co-operative sources. Any imports are intended to complement not replace local produce and to offer a complete organic alternative Minimise packaging, waste and transport, by ensuring the freshness of produce, minimising the distances food travels and cutting out intermediaries

- Offer farm visits, educational and practical information to raise awareness of the environmental and social advantages of organic seasonal and fairly traded food