Sustainable Agriculture

Agriculture has changed dramatically over the past century.  Food productivity has increased and prices have decreased as a result of new technology.  However, the positive effects of technology did not come without costs (e.g. topsoil erosion, ground water contamination, and decline of family farms).

Sustainable agriculture is based on the principle that we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.  Making a transition to sustainable agriculture is a process.  The process includes steps to address social responsibilities as well as stewardship of land and natural resources.  Del Monte Fresh Produce Company applies the principles of sustainable agriculture wherever possible, as verified by certifications and third party audits.

Among the actions we take are the following. To preserve the soil: make fertilization decisions based on soil tests, minimum tillage, maintain ground cover and mulches.  To protect water quality: increase soil organic matter, use soil conservation practices that reduce erosion, plant buffer crops and cover crops, manage irrigation.  Steps for environmentally responsible management of pests: prevent pest problems by choosing appropriate cultivars, base interventions on crop scouting and economic damage thresholds, implement cultural practices to make life more difficult for the pest and easier for its natural enemies, when using pesticides we seek the least toxic chemical that will control the pest.