ABOUT

we specialize in exporting cured vanilla beans (cut and whole beans) to global markets.

Sourcing and processing

  • We source our vanilla beans directly from farmers who are supported by extension workers to ensure we purchase the high quality ripe fresh green vanilla beans.

  • Quality control is our main focus which we achieve by buying fresh ripe green vanilla beans. To ensure high quality safe cured vanilla, we train our farmers on how to determine ripeness, proper harvesting techniques, appropriate bean storage, secure and clean transportation to our factory. We also have a food safety management system (FSMS) and Hazard analysis plan (HACCP) in place.

  • Process: Our curing process follows the following sequence. We source our vanilla beans from our pool of trained vanilla growing farmers. The harvested fresh vanilla beans are then sorted so that we purchase only high quality ripe beans. These are then cleaned, cured, packed and exported.

    • Sustainability

    We promote sustainable practices that protect the environment and support our farmers, ensuring the long-term viability of vanilla production.

    Environmental Sustainability; We promote climate smart vanilla farming by discouraging deforestation and encouraging protection of natural ecosystems. Since vanilla thrives in the shade, we encourage intercropping with indigenous trees, fruit trees and cash crops like coffee, these naturally prevent monoculture and boost biodiversity. To protect human health and the environment, we strictly prohibit use of pesticides. Vanilla which is an orchid helps preserve local ecosystems and captures carbon from the atmosphere.

    Social and Economic sustainability:  We ensure farmers receive a fair price for their vanilla, which directly improves their livelihoods. By empowering them with training and resources, we promote the adoption of sustainable farming practices. This support drives social and economic development within their communities. We also encourage intergenerational skill transfer, a tradition we have encouraged for 37 years, which is vital for the long-term sustainability of this attention demanding crop.

    We discourage child labour, forced labour and work place violence and harassment. Our workers' working conditions, health and safety are paramount. Gender equality is at the forefront of our operations.

    Curing practices

    At Uvan, we cure either using the sun or using solar heated hot water. Both are efficient and environmentally friendly ways of curing which preserve the flavour and quality of the vanilla beans. Both methods reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

    Packing and Export

    We use recyclable materials in our production processes which are ecofriendly. We also use freights where the routes are shorter to reduce our the carbon footprint.

    Global Export & Logistics

    We are committed to exporting premium, safe cured vanilla, meeting our customer timelines and using routes where our carbon foot print is minimised.