Why is Tony’s Chocolonely still absent from the Slave Free Chocolate List still remains a frequent inquiry in my inbox.
Initially, Tony’s Chocolonely earned recognition on the Ethical Chocolate Company’s List due to their commendable efforts in raising awareness about the issue of child and slave labor in cacao production. Despite operating ethically themselves, their partnership with Barry Callebaut, a complicit giant in this matter, gave them a pass in acknowledgment of their public stance against slavery in the chocolate industry.
In 2007, ethical chocolate makers were scarce, and Tony’s emerged as a pioneer, advocating change in the industry. However, despite their promises and efforts to initiate industry-wide reforms starting with Barry Callebaut, they've remained steadfastly independent in their approach, leading to their isolation – hence the "Lonely" in Chocolonely.
While initially left on the list due to their promises, the lack of tangible industry changes, the persistent use of child labor, and their continued association with Barry Callebaut led to questions from other ethical companies. Their absence from the list continues as the industry remains unchanged, with rising child labor and merely superficial commitments to sustainability and labor practices.
Despite numerous announced initiatives by companies profiting from child and slave labor, none have produced meaningful results. The underlying issue is the inability to ensure a true living wage for farmers, leading them to resort to unpaid child labor, while the industry strives to keep cacao prices at rock bottom.
The conclusion is clear: consumer-facing marketing claims unravel to reveal no substantial impact, leaving consumers susceptible to being "brandwashed." Until significant tangible changes are witnessed or an assurance of ethical practices throughout their operations is evident, Tony’s Chocolonely remains excluded from the list.
Slave Free Chocolate is committed to showcasing the chocolate companies that are Ethical the Whole Way Through. If you are one of these companies and not on our list, please contact us.
