Safety is Our #1 Priority
All Fresh Forward farms are Primus-certified as part of the Global Food Safety Initiative, and we are committed to providing produce that exceeds our customers’ expectations. These standard operating procedures lead to safe practices and relationships:
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Our packing facilities receive third-party food safety audits benchmarked by the Global Food Safety Initiative.
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We consistently review and update our food safety practices by investing in new technologies, equipment, staff training and facility enhancements.
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We have full traceability on every case of produce our farms ship.
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For inquiries on our food safety protocols, please contact Laurie Grobe, Food Safety Coordinator, at laurie@freshforwardfarms.com.
Working for a Long-Lasting Legacy
We take on environmental and social responsibilities to help our community, environment and planet thrive. We work closely with the EPA and other organizations to preserve our orchards, decrease wasteful bi-products and promote human well-being.
Natural Resources
We practice rotational crops and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) only when necessary to maintain our most valuable resources.
Energy
Our headquarters is run by 80% solar energy and high efficiency lighting. Our vertically integrated orchards save on transportation and “food miles.”
Waste Management
We limit our waste at every step, from apples for cider and applesauce to recycling our sustainable packaging materials.
Fair Working Conditions
As a family business, we value our people. We are compliant with the Dept. of Labor and pay all our workers above the minimum wage.
Invested in Our Community
At Fresh Forward, it’s important for us to be engaged in our regional Great Lakes communities. We partner with Future Farmers of America and other agricultural programs to provide education and scholarships for the next generation of farmers.
Our farmers give back to the community through regional food banks and healthcare organizations. Each year, Fresh Forward donates thousands of apples to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
Find Us in Your Community
Fresh Forward distributes fresh market produce to retail grocers and markets throughout the Great Lakes region. If you'd like to request distribution in your area, please contact us.
We were introduced to Burnham Orchards more than 15 years ago when we partnered with Fruit Growers Marketing Association – an organization dedicated to representing small local growers to retailers to ensure that they have a place in the apple market. As a company committed to supporting local growers, our partnership with Fruit Growers Marketing Association and Burnham Orchards was a natural fit.
-Heinen's Grocery Store
My thanks to Alex, all the growers and staff at Fresh Forward for providing us with exceptional quality fruit and service. It is a great partnership that we have and I value the friendship, too!
-Buehler's Fresh Foods
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