Beneath the Sweetness of Our Strawberries Is the Skilled Labor of Thousands of Farmworkers
Rebecca Diaz-Castrejon
Bilingual Strategist I Hispanic Copyeditor I Spanish-Language Writer
Strawberries make it to your fridge in perfect condition, but do you know how they were grown? Strawberries are handpicked, carefully pulled off the stem, and packed right into the clamshell. They grow low to the ground, which means farmworkers must harvest while in a stooped or bent position, putting strain on their backs.
The harvest process requires a great deal of physical effort. Still, farmworkers are extremely quick and efficient (as any other agricultural worker) while ensuring only the highest quality berries are harvested.
Strawberry growers certified on social responsibility recognize farmworkers' contributions and are working diligently to protect and incentivize farm labor. We invite you to support farmers who are making a positive change in the lives of agricultural workers by selecting strawberries under ethical labels like Equitable Food Initiative's Responsibly Grown, Farmworker Assured at Costco Wholesale, or the Sourced for Good program at Whole Foods Market stores.
