Traceability
The Dutoit Group ensures that all its products can be traced back after they are sold to the place where they originate from. We keep full records of all production practices and the products used in the process. All these records, once they are compiled, are retained for a minimum period of two years.

Internal Audits:
Each estate or farm of the Dutoit Group undergoes a self-inspection process each year. This is followed by an inspection by an internal auditor. The Dutoit Group currently uses the GlobalGap Option 2 system and is also audited annually by an external auditor. The pack houses undergo HACCP and BRC audits..

Fertilizer:
Dutoit Group is committed to the responsible management of fertilizer programmes which are primarily aimed at optimizing the given production potential by retaining, and where possible, improving the soil fertility. The addition of non organic fertilizers is strictly limited to the real requirements of the tree. Over the longer term we endeavour to further limit the use of non organic fertilizers by organic rehabilitation of the orchard soil.

Irrigation:
Water is recognized as a scarce but most important natural resource in our production process. We need to ensure that we have sufficient irrigation water in storage dams and boreholes for the area under cultivation. We manage water in a responsible, sustainable manner, in accordance with the philosophy of good agricultural practices and without posing any risk to the environment.

We use moisture probes to apply scientifically based irrigation scheduling and use a computer model to ensure that the correct volume of water is supplied at the correct time to the root zone of the tree. Irrigation is part of our integrated pest and disease management program.

Crop protection:
The Dutoit Group’s mission includes the production of top quality fruit in total harmony with the environment and with the minimum use of synthetic pesticides. This implies the promotion of biological control and the expansion of non chemical control measures, as well as the implementation of production practices which will suppress the increase of harmful insects, mites and pathogens.

Pesticide usage, when required, is based on sound monitor data, weather data and data collected from pest and/or disease models. It is carried out in such a way so as to prevent the development of resistant biotypes of the target population. The IPM program forms part of an integrated production system, which supports the principles of good agricultural practices acceptable to local specialists as well as international expertise. Worker safety and pollution prevention are key priorities in the storage, handling and application of pesticides.

The management of pollution and waste
Dutoit Group is committed to limiting any form of pollution which could arise from farming or related activities. In order to do so all possible sources of pollution are identified, evaluated and reviewed on an annual basis. Action plans are developed to manage any pollution which may occur.

All relevant staff are briefed on the contents of these plans and each staff member has specific responsibilities in carrying out the plans.

Work Health and Safety
The Dutoit Group is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for its staff.

In order to this each farm or estate is expected to do a full risk analysis in which health and safety threats in the work environment are identified and measures taken to limit the possibility of injury and losses to the minimum. The person responsible for this is a member of senior management.

Responsibility for the safety and health of workers, visitors and customers
The Dutoit Group acknowledges its responsibility to ensure, within reason, the safety and health of workers, visitors and customers.

In order to fulfill this responsibility all possible safety and health risks are evaluated on an annual basis and action plans are developed to minimise these risks or to reduce them to below harmful levels. All food safety risks that may exist during the production process and handling of fresh produce are identified and action plans and procedures are in place to eliminate them or reduce the risk.

Environmrntal Management
The task of managing commercial agricultural activities within a sensitive eco system, places a very specific responsibility on management. The Dutoit Group accepts full responsibility to act as custodians of the environment and is committed to the management of bio diversity, the responsible use of natural resources and the minimizing and responsible handling of waste. Risk areas are identified and measures implemented to minimize pollution of the environment.

Residue Testing and MRL Monitoring
Samples are taken from all produce of all varieties from all farms and estates delivered for packing for testing in certified laboratories.

Deciduous Fruit Producer’s Trust
The Dutoit Group acknowledges the importance of adhering to protocols in the fruit industry.
http://www.dfpt.co.za/content/view/86/140/lang,en/

Food Safety
Safe food and traceability goes hand in hand. We have systems in place taken.

Quality
The challenge here is consistent quality and this is a reputation that we have built up over many years with our longstanding clients.

Pollution
A sample of the packhouse run off water is sent montly for micro- and chemical analysis to prevent pollution.