Metolius Tea sources as many ingredients as possible directly from small co-op and family-owned farms. We have found the most vibrant flavors, values and relationships at the community level. Our most cherished farming partnerships practice sustainable farming and affect measurable social impact in their communities.
The vanilla in our Earl Grey tea is sourced from LAFAZA in Madagascar who partners directly with small farm cooperatives using sustainable farming practices to protect rainforest biodiversity. Rather than growing vanilla in large, mono-cropped plantations, LAFAZA vanilla comes from independent, small-holder farmers whose dense agroforestry systems act much more like a healthy forest, and less like an industrial farm.Their direct-trade model allows their farmers to be paid a premium price for some of Madagascar’s highest quality vanilla beans. In addition to supporting small farms, they also invest in social development projects including community libraries and resource centers, and provide training and employment opportunities, especially for women.