Whole Foods Unveils Seafood Code for Human Rights & Ethics
Whole Foods Market has taken a significant step forward in reinforcing its dedication to ethical labor practices and human rights by introducing a comprehensive new Seafood Code of Conduct. This initiative is designed to safeguard the welfare of workers throughout its global seafood supply chain and enhance transparency in the industry. By setting higher standards for ethical sourcing and supply chain accountability, Whole Foods Market continues to build on its industry-leading Quality Standards.
A Commitment to Ethical Labor PracticesThe newly launched Seafood Code of Conduct reflects globally recognized principles, including the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Work in Fishing Convention. These principles serve as a foundation for the company’s commitment to protecting fishers, vessel crew members, and all individuals involved in the seafood supply chain.
Key Provisions of the Seafood Code of ConductThe new Code of Conduct applies to fresh, frozen, and canned seafood suppliers, including sushi, and covers several critical areas to ensure fair treatment of workers and ethical sourcing. The key provisions include:
- Maximum Working Hours and Time at SeaThe Code aligns with ILO Fishing Convention standards regarding working hours and required rest periods. Additionally, it mandates that all fishing vessels must return to port at least once every 11 months, ensuring that crew members are not subjected to indefinite time at sea, which can contribute to exploitative labor conditions.
- Ethical Recruitment PracticesThe Code explicitly prohibits recruitment fees, which are often used to trap workers in exploitative debt. Additionally, it mandates that all workers receive clear and fair employment contracts that outline their rights, responsibilities, and compensation terms.
- Communication Access for Crew MembersEnsuring that fishers and crew members can maintain contact with their families and support networks is a key focus of the new Code. The policy requires vessels to provide crew members with access to communication channels, including the installation of Wi-Fi where feasible.
- This measure is crucial in helping crew members stay connected with family members, NGOs, and worker representatives while at sea.
- Health and Safety StandardsTo protect workers from hazardous conditions, the Code mandates rigorous safety training, personal protective equipment (PPE), medical care, and access to adequate food and water. These requirements aim to prevent common safety violations and ensure that crew members work in humane conditions.
Industry Support and Expert InsightsWhole Foods Market’s initiative has received praise from industry experts and organizations dedicated to improving labor standards in the seafood industry. Kelley K. Bell, Social Responsibility Division Director at Fishwise, highlighted the importance of the company’s commitment:
“Congratulations to Whole Foods Market for delivering a cutting-edge Seafood Code of Conduct that focuses on the worker’s needs and rights, explicitly outlining their stance on key, emerging topics, including responsible recruitment and Wi-Fi on vessels. - There should be no confusion about the expectations of those that are a part of the Whole Foods Market seafood supply chain.”
By clearly defining these expectations, Whole Foods Market is setting a precedent that other companies in the seafood industry can follow.
Raising the Bar for Industry StandardsWhole Foods Market has long been recognized as a leader in responsible seafood sourcing. The company collaborates with fisheries and suppliers that adhere to high sustainability and ethical standards. However, in addition to prioritizing environmental sustainability, Whole Foods Market acknowledges the need for greater worker protections and enhanced labor practices across the industry.
In recent years, human rights abuses in the global seafood supply chain have gained increasing attention. Issues such as forced labor, human trafficking, and inhumane working conditions have plagued parts of the industry, prompting companies like Whole Foods Market to take decisive action.
To address these concerns, Whole Foods Market continues to advocate for stronger traceability measures and improved communication technologies for fishing crews. - The company recognizes that providing tools such as Wi-Fi onboard vessels is not just a convenience but a necessary step toward ensuring worker safety and transparency.
Advocacy for Policy ChangesWhole Foods Market is not only implementing changes within its own supply chain but is also actively engaging with policymakers and industry leaders to push for broader reforms. - Most recently, the company collaborated with Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch to urge the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) to adopt more stringent labor protections.
Some of the key policy recommendations included:
The implementation of electronic monitoring (EM) systems to track vessel activity and ensure compliance with labor standards.
Stronger crew welfare measures, such as ensuring proper rest periods and living conditions.
Science-based targets for tuna stock management to promote sustainability alongside ethical labor practices.
These efforts demonstrate Whole Foods Market’s holistic approach to improving the seafood industry—balancing environmental conservation with human rights protections.
Encouraging Industry-Wide ChangeWhole Foods Market recognizes that meaningful change requires collective action. The company is encouraged by other retailers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders who are taking steps to adopt similar worker protections and ethical labor standards.
By setting a higher standard for responsible sourcing, Whole Foods Market is paving the way for a more transparent and humane seafood industry. - The company remains committed to fostering long-term partnerships that prioritize both sustainability and social responsibility.
As the industry continues to evolve, Whole Foods Market’s Seafood Code of Conduct serves as a blueprint for others to follow, proving that ethical business practices and industry leadership go hand in hand.
