Date published
October 1, 2026
Bananas are a grocery staple for a reason. They’re easy, versatile and available year-round. At Calgary Co-op, we carry Equifruit Fairtrade bananas in all of our locations, so a simple everyday choice can also support the farmers who grow them.
Fairtrade is an ethical certification from Fairtrade International, created to make trade fairer for the people who grow our food. When a product carries the Fairtrade Mark, it has been produced in line with the Fairtrade Standards.
A stable, fair price
Under the Standards, farmers and workers are paid at least the Fairtrade Minimum Price. It’s a stable, fair price that factors in the cost of sustainable production, so growers can plan ahead with more confidence.
Extra funds for communities
Certified products also generate a Fairtrade Premium, set independently by Fairtrade International. These extra funds are paid directly to farmers and workers, who invest them in their communities based on their own priorities.
Safer, more responsible farming
The Fairtrade Standards go beyond price. They include safer working conditions, environmentally responsible farming, and a total ban on child and forced labour.
More than bananas
Fairtrade certification applies to many everyday products, including coffee, cocoa, tea and sugar. Choosing Fairtrade is a simple way to bring that impact into more of your grocery run.
Equifruit is North America’s leading Fairtrade banana company, founded in Quebec in 2006. Every banana they import is Fairtrade certified, and it has been from day one. They’re also women-owned and a certified B Corp. Their bananas are grown by Fairtrade-certified farmers in Ecuador, Colombia and Mexico.
The impact of your purchase
For every 40 lb case of Equifruit bananas sold, farmers earn an additional $1 US in Fairtrade Premium. Growers invest those funds in projects like education, healthcare, training and climate resilience.
You can pick up Equifruit Fairtrade bananas in the produce aisle at any Calgary Co-op location. It’s an easy way to add a little more good to your grocery run, and it’s a great fit for Fairtrade Month in October or any other time of year. Learn more about Equifruit’s sustainability story on their website.