The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission (NC SweetPotato Commission) has joined the U.S. Sustainability Alliance (USSA). The not-for-profit, which represents the state’s sweetpotato industry, expands USSA’s membership to 24 farming, fishery, and forestry trade associations and supply chain partners across the United States. All are committed to sustainability and together are responsible for more than $5 billion of annual U.S. food and agricultural exports to the EU.
Founded in 1961, the NC Sweetpotato Commission has more than 450 members including the state’s producers as well as the packers, shippers, and supply chain partners that support them. With a mission to promote the consumption of the North Carolina sweetpotato, the Commission sees its membership in USSA as a platform to educate consumers about its sustainability practices.
Michelle Grainger, Executive Director of the NC SweetPotato Commission said, “The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission is thrilled to join the U.S. Sustainability Alliance on behalf of our members, our innovative producers, packers and shippers. As part of USSA, we look forward to sharing knowledge and collaborating with our fellow Alliance members to promote a better understanding of our sustainability credentials among European consumers. The sweetpotato has numerous sustainable benefits in terms of how it is produced, stored and enjoyed – and with USSA’s support we hope to let more people know that.”
David Green, Executive Director of the U.S. Sustainability Alliance added, “The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission is a welcome addition to USSA’s membership. We look forward to working with Michelle and the team to raise awareness of this tropical vegetable and the grower practices that make it a sustainable choice for European buyers and consumers.”