Chantal Organics

Since its 1978 foundation by a handful of Hawke’s Bay families who wanted a better way to live, Chantal Organics has been driven by leaving a light footprint, which is why its no surprise it was one of the Outstanding Food Producer Awards highest scoring sustainability entries in 2024.

What is good for the planet is good for us and what is good for us is good for the planet. Chantal Organics realised this reality many years ago and successfully began a journey as pioneers in New Zealand’s Organic food industry.

The kindling of Chantal Organics ignited in 1978 when a group of families in Napier formed a cooperative with a vision to make organic food more available, affordable and accessible. Naturally, more people hopped on board and inspired the inception of a shop and then a distribution centre. Over 45 years later, the grass-roots co-operative now embodies a successful business that boasts various organic products on shelves nationwide; from supermarkets to your kitchen cupboard.

By steering well clear of synthetic chemicals and genetically modified components, Chantal Organics has achieved a growing range of products that are certified organic by AsureQuality and BioGro. Sustainability is symbiotic with organic food production; it avoids degenerative practices that pollute and degrade the soil, air and water and can engage regenerative practices that improve environmental well-being. Nourished soils with greater biodiversity and fertilisation methods that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere are the foundations from which the Chantal Organics’ product range grows.

Extending beyond their own production lines, Chantal Organics also distribute the organic produce of small growers and supports them in acquiring third-party organic certification. Organic certification provides the transparency they believe consumers need. Consumers can know that the nutritious food that sustains their day ahead also sustains our precious planet for the years to come.

Chantal Organics prioritises sustainability in all divisions of business. The entirety of its range is embraced with recyclable packaging. Chantal Organic Marketing & NPD Assistant Kristen Capaccio explains that packaging is an in-depth part of manufacturing that requires continued consideration.

“We consistently ask ourselves what’s the best option available? Is it compostable, recyclable, glass, plastic or something new? We don’t stop questioning until we find packaging that offers a full life cycle and maintains the freshness of our organic ingredients,” she says.

Chantal Organics know that sustainable packaging is an undertaking that requires everyone to play their part; from producers to consumers. Thus, they support consumers with clear recycling instructions on-pack to ensure their packaging ends up in the right place after leaving the shelves. As a member of the Packaging Forum, Chantal Organics help promote sustainable packaging solutions, accessibility, and outcomes for New Zealanders.

Some of their products use soft plastic that needs to be dropped at designated bins. Although recycling soft plastic takes a touch more effort than kerbside recycling, consumers are more than capable when fueled by the sustenance previously encased inside - such as an Organic Probiotic Protein Bar!

Keeping waste to a minimum remains an enduring goal. Surplus goods are donated to not-for-profit organisations such as Nourished for Nil and food waste unfit for humans nourishes local livestock. Solar panels power the manufacturing facility and any excess renewable energy is put back into the grid.

Chantal Organics’ know that nurturing a positive team culture is vital for them to radiate well-being in their external pursuits. Despite having two offices, one in Auckland and one in Napier, the team strive to remain connected and informed on the current work in each department. The team have recently come together to volunteer at a community event in Napier to protect native plants and encourage biodiversity. As it was such a success, the team has plans for further events this year.

Taking a holistic approach to every facet of the business has borne fruit at the 2024 Outstanding Food Awards. Chantal Organics Bang Bang BBQ Style Corn Puffs topped the podium with a gold medal and their Churro Style Corn Puffs posed with silver. These organic pioneers and planet protectors remain successfully united in a commitment that promotes the health of the environment, the people and the industry. They are strengthening the network of New Zealand’s Organic Food Industry and a sustainable future.

Find out more on Chantal Organic’s website.