It’s a B2B certification that compiles good practices on sustainability, developed by the INC, based on the 3 ESG pillars: environment, social, and governance. Each pillar is addressed through specific topics detailed in the Standards. 

By the end of the year we will be certifying Growers of Almonds, Cashews, Hazelnuts, Macadamias, Pistachios, Walnuts, Raisins, as well as Processors/Manufacturers, and Global Trade Specialists. During 2026 Standards for all other nuts and dried fruits will be incorporated: Pecans, Brazil Nuts, Pine Nuts, Dates, Dried Apricots, Dried Cranberries, Dried Figs, Prunes, and Peanuts.  

It recognizes the efforts made towards sustainability. Improves the image and branding of the company and can lead to more business opportunities as the sector grows.  

Yes! There is a registered trademark that can be used by certified companies, as it is defined in the Certification Agreement. Growers can have three tiers (one, two or three stars), whilst Processors/Manufacturers, and Global Trade Specialists, have a single tier. The logo is not intended to be used on consumer packaging (B2C). 

Of course! Sustainability is growing in sourcing policies, the certification will help buyers and retailers identify sustainable sources of products, and increase business opportunities. 

All INC Members who perform business activities related to the Standards.  

You can apply for certification by completing the contact form on our website or by sending us an email. Once we receive your request, we will send you an application form to gather key details, such as your company’s main business activities, the standard/product you wish to certify, any existing valid certifications, and the number of facilities to be covered. Based on this information, we will provide a formal offer that includes two documents: the Certification Agreement and a Service Proposal outlining the audit process. The total cost of certification depends on several factors. If your company already holds valid certifications, the audit time may be reduced, which can lower the overall cost.

Yes, companies can apply for all activities they perform (growing, processing, manufacturing, trading) and growers can apply for multiple nuts and/or dried fruits.  

Yes! This is one of the main advantages, as it facilitates business globally. The certification is built considering the realities of the largest producing and processing areas.  

The process can take up to 3 months, depending on the availability of the Certifying entity and the Applicant to perfom/receive the audit. 

Standards will be publicly available on the website for consultation, and to provide guidance and consultation for the official audit.  

Standards will be publicly available on the website, the application form will be provided under request –once the INC has verified the eligibility of the Company.  

At the moment there is no training or onboarding available. All documentation is available in English only. 

The Certification is valid for one year, but operates on a three-year audit cycle to optimize costs: in year-1, a full on-site audit is conducted; in years 2 and 3, remote surveillance audits are carried out to monitor continued compliance. 

No, only the companies authorized by the INC shall perform the Audit. The contact with the auditing company will be done directly by the INC, once the Service Request and Certification Agreement have been signed by the Applicant and the INC. 

The INC Certification recognizes the most commonly used certifications, such as FSA, SMETA, GLOBAL GAP, and some ISOs. This reduces work for the applicant and audit costs.