Home Authority & Legal Americas: Kemin’s spearmint earns Sustainably Grown certification

Americas: Kemin’s spearmint earns Sustainably Grown certification

The production of Hi-RA Mint, a proprietary line of spearmint developed by Kemin plant scientists using traditional plant breeding methods, has been certified Sustainably Grown.

The recognition of Kemin and its growing partner came following a rigorous third-party audit and assessment by SCS Global Services (SCS). Sustainably Grown a certification standard that supports long-term sustainable agricultural production by identifying crops grown in accordance with exceptional environmental and social responsibility, as well as quality and safety requirements.

Hi-RA Mint takes its name from ‘high Rosmarinic Acid’.

Spearmint plants produce a diverse phytochemicals for flavoring preservation and health benefits.

The company has developed two clonal lines that are traditionally bred to naturally select for phytochemicals that are suitable for commercial production for food, personal care, health, and pet food applications.

“Market demand for plant-based antioxidants, preservatives, and flavorings is soaring and it’s even more important than ever to use long-term, sustainable techniques that are good for the land, show social responsibility and produce crops grown in accordance with quality and safety requirements,” said Dr. John Greaves, Kemin vice president of specialty crops.

To produce Hi-RA Mint, Kemin co-farms with a five-generation, family-owned operation located in an area of Indiana with favorable mint-growing conditions.

In September 2014, Kemin became the first and only company in the world to obtain a third-party certification for 100% of its proprietary rosemary as Sustainably Grown by SCS Global Service.

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