TORONTO — McDonald’s Canada has partnered with the Rainforest Alliance to serve McCafé coffee made from 100-per-cent Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee beans in its restaurants nationwide.
“Canadians are looking for brands to take a leadership role in making positive changes in the industry and we’re listening to that,” says Catherine Crozier, senior Director, McCafé Strategy, Marketing& Brand Innovation. “Our decision to serve 100-per-cent ethically sourced coffee beans is another step forward in our coffee journey. Rainforest Alliance certification provides our guests with the knowledge that when they choose McCafé coffee, their choice makes a positive impact on our planet.”
This latest initiative is part of McDonald’s Canada’s continuing sustainability journey, which includes its recently announced plans for two “Green Concept Restaurants.”
The Rainforest Alliance is an international non-profit organization that focuses on the well-being of farm communities, forests and wildlife. The certified coffee beans are grown and harvested in conditions that specifically protect forests, conserve wildlife and supports communities. To become Rainforest Alliance Certified, farms and farmers are audited annually and must comply with rigorous environmental, social and economic standards.
“Having a partner like McDonald’s and the McCafé brand is a meaningful way to help educate Canadians about how their coffee is grown and how everyday choices can make a difference,” says Miguel Zamora, director of Core Markets at the Rainforest Alliance. “The Rainforest Alliance Certified seal on McCafé cups lets Canadians know the coffee inside the cup is from beans sourced in a way that supports farmers and their communities and helps protect our environment.”