In acknowledgement of its commitment as an environmental-friendly, organic food producer in Asia, driving excellence, innovation and leadership in the industry, Bio Foods (Pvt) Ltd was honoured as the Best Exporter – Organic Sector in Sri Lanka, for two consecutive years, 2019/20 and 2020/21 at the 24th Presidential Export Awards ceremony held recently. Hosted by the Export Development Board (EDB), the awards were held under the patronage of His Excellency, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, at the BMICH. Organised annually by the EDB, the Presidential Export Awards, is the highest and the most prestigious award presented by the President of Sri Lanka to exporters in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the export sector and to the economic development of the country. Established in 1993, Bio Foods is devoted in its mission as an organic and Fair-Trade company. Bio Foods is world’s first exporter of Organic and Fair Trade spices and coconut products and Dr. Sarath Ranaweera, founding Chairman of Bio Foods was awarded as the Fairest Fair Trader of the world in 2014.
Commenting on receiving the awards, Sanjaya Yaddehige, CEO of Bio Foods (Pvt) Ltd states, “We are proud to win awards that reinforce our mission which demonstrate the highest standards of organic and fair-trade production. Today, we are recognized as one of the world leaders in biodynamic, organic and fair-trade agriculture. Most importantly, we adhere to strict international organic and social standards every step of the way showcased through our organic and social certifications and accolades. Being recognized as the leader in a globally booming, socially responsible industry is an achievement and we are indebted to our farmers and other stakeholders who have played a pivotal role in our success. Under the guidance of our Chairman, Dr. Sarath Ranaweera, we look forward to further expanding our contribution to sustainability by rejuvenating the soil via our microbial biofertilizer which will help the country to significantly increase foreign exchange generation through value added agricultural exports”
Winning the awards is yet another accolade for the company as Bio Foods was also the Winner at German Sustainability Award 2020 for Best Global Corporate Partnerships (with Bio Foods joint venture partner, GLS Bank, Germany). Ranked as Europe’s most prestigious award in the field of sustainable development, the German Sustainability Award honours best contributors in the fields of climate, resources, biodiversity and society. The Award was an honour and international recognition brought to Sri Lanka by Bio Foods. Accruing more prestige, Bio Foods was a world finalist of the Sustainability Food Awards 2019, under sustainable leadership and sustainable pioneer categories. As a long-time processor and exporter of high-quality products, Bio Foods plays a major role in the organic post-harvested food industry in Sri Lanka. Through fair trade standards, Bio Foods ensures farmers are safeguarded from fluctuating market prices and middle-man exploitation and receive superior premiums towards a better standard of living in their communities – thus Bio Foods demonstrates hallmarks of true leadership in modern sustainable agriculture. Completing nearly three decades of successfully organic production, Bio Foods is a leading exporter of tea, spices and coconut products, with exciting plans, through innovation, to continue to deliver excellence in the nation’s organic sector.
