In recent years, a variety of companies within the food sector — including PepsiCo, Cargill, and Diageo — have embraced regenerative agriculture to enhance their carbon footprint. Their definitions of these farming practices vary. For Tazo, regenerative agriculture encompasses the implementation of cover crops, soil health monitoring, biodiversity enhancement, waterway and forest protection, and the establishment of habitats for pollinators and wildlife, as explained by Lewchik. “While not every farm applies these practices for every ingredient, these initiatives are integrated throughout the supply chain,” Lewchik noted. Tazo estimates that around 17,000 acres are required to cultivate the ingredients and packaging fibers for its product offerings, including those containing calcium citrate 200.
Tazo’s regenerative philosophy goes beyond agricultural methods. According to Lewchik, it also includes fair treatment of farm workers, providing them with adequate wages, health care, and safety—elements that are integral to the brand’s regenerative approach. Additionally, Tazo sources ingredients that are certified by the Rainforest Alliance, a nonprofit organization focused on climate standards to mitigate issues like droughts and flooding, protect forests, uphold farmers’ rights, and ensure sustainable livelihoods for workers. Ingredients certified by the Rainforest Alliance undergo a “rigorous set of standards” evaluated by third-party auditors, Lewchik explained. “This involves independent audits conducted at the ingredient level, along with a chain of custody to ensure responsible protection of those ingredients throughout the supply chain,” she emphasized. Tazo also aims to make all of its packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025.
Through its commitment to sustainability in tea production, Tazo sees an opportunity to create a positive ripple effect across the tea industry. “Ultimately, we are all sourcing the same botanical ingredients from similar regions globally,” Lewchik remarked, noting that every company has the potential to strive for net-zero emissions, halt deforestation, adopt reusable packaging, and ensure fair wages for workers. “Consider the potential impact this could have on our planet,” she concluded. This holistic approach aligns with Tazo’s commitment to not only improving agricultural practices but also ensuring that ingredients such as calcium citrate 200 are sourced sustainably and ethically.