At Farm Boy, we’re passionate about fresh produce. Every day, our expert buyers hand-select fruits and veggies from the market, ensuring only the best make it to our shelves. We want you to enjoy produce that not only tastes great but lasts longer, so it’s ready when you are.  

The Farm Boy Way

A big part of the Farm Boy Way is all about delivering exceptional value. We do this through high-quality offerings, a thoughtfully curated assortment, and a commitment to supporting our communities and the people we source from. Farm Boy is proud to uplift local and Canadian growers whenever we can. In the cases that we bring in imported selections, we make sure they’re truly seasonal standouts.  

Take Equifruit for example—the subject of this vendor spotlight. They’re a women-owned, Canadian, certified B Corp that ethically sources our organic bananas under Fairtrade International standards. These bananas aren’t just delicious—they’re part of a movement toward fairer working conditions and greater economic equality. That’s good food from good neighbours!   

Be sure to pick up some Equifruit organic Fairtrade bananas—along with plenty of other Fairtrade favourites—next time you visit your neighbourhood Farm Boy. And don’t forget to check out our Digital Flyer for the latest deals and hidden gems we think you’ll love.  

The Equifruit Story  

Led by Jennie Coleman and Kim Chackal, Equifruit was founded in 2006 to challenge the traditional banana industry, which has long faced issues around environmental and labour exploitation. As a proud 100% Fairtrade brand, every single one of their grower partners is paid fairly, every time, in line with Fairtrade International’s standards. With a deep commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and fair value across the supply chain, Equifruit isn’t just changing the banana game—they’re shaking up the entire produce industry. And they’re doing it with purpose, passion, and a whole lot of personality.   

Proudly based in Montreal, Equifruit is the leading importer of Fairtrade-certified bananas in North America. The company is on a mission to spark change in the industry by shedding light on the need for fair pay and ethical sourcing. They do this by making fair pay for banana farmers and producers as engaging and followable as pop culture. Equifruit’s on a mission to prove “Global Fairtrade Banana Domination” is more than just a catchy slogan—it’s a powerful movement.  

“When you choose Equifruit organic Fairtrade bananas at Farm Boy, you are supporting a Canadian, women-owned business. Our farming partners in Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru are paid a fairer wage and have additional income for community projects thanks to your support.”

~Equifruit

Bananas with a Purpose  

Wholesome, sweet, and long-lasting, Equifruit organic bananas are 100% Fairtrade certified. This certification ensures that the company supports safer labour conditions, fair wages, and sustainable development for banana farmers. The company partners with growers in Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru, where producers receive a minimum price set by Fairtrade International. This price reflects the true cost of sustainable farming, including decent wages, environmentally friendly practices, and safer working conditions. When you choose Equifruit, you’re helping build a fairer, more responsible banana industry. One bunch at a time!  

Learn more about Equifruit’s sustainable practices.  

“Supporting Fairtrade in bananas helps farmers break a century-old cycle of generational poverty. The fairer wages and better working conditions allow them to farm with dignity while improving their communities.”

~Equifruit 

The Fairtrade Premium  

In addition to the Fairtrade selling price, Equifruit banana producers also earn a Fairtrade Premium. Set by Fairtrade International, this gives growers an extra $1 USD per case of bananas. These funds go directly to the producers, and they decide how to use them based on their current needs. Whether it’s investing in education, healthcare, housing, climate resilience, or other community projects, the Fairtrade Premium helps improve their businesses, strengthen their communities, and support better livelihoods overall.  

A Sweet Partnership for a Fairer Future  

Back in 2016, Farm Boy teamed up with Equifruit to bring a fresh twist to your banana basket. We switched our organic bananas to Equifruit’s organic Fairtrade bananas! Fast forward to today, and thanks to customers like you, we’ve helped grow a movement within the banana industry that’s rooted in ethical practices. Your support has made a real impact—locally and globally—by championing sustainability and fairness at every step. We’re proud to be part of this change and excited to keep making a difference together for years to come.  

“Farm Boy was the first conventional retailer in Ontario to take a chance on Equifruit. Our partnership is a constant reminder of where we came from and the important customers that believed in us at a time when nobody was thinking about Fairtrade bananas. We are eternally grateful for their support and are proud to call them our partner.”

~Kim Chackal, Co-Owner and VP of Sales & Marketing at Equifruit

By offering and selling Equifruit organic Fairtrade bananas, Farm Boy contributes approximately $30,000 USD per year in Fairtrade Premiums!

Dollars in Action  

At Asoguabo, one of Equifruit’s banana grower partners in Ecuador, the Fairtrade Premium is making a real difference. The community chose to invest in upgrading classrooms and learning spaces, and the impact has been incredible! Nearly 5,000 students now have access to better-equipped schools, with essential improvements like new roofs, floors, restrooms, playgrounds, and sports facilities. On top of that, investments in computers, air conditioning units, desks, and educational materials are helping create a more comfortable and inspiring environment. Here, students can learn, grow, and thrive! By supporting programs like these, we help build a fairer world. One where our partners and their communities can truly flourish. In turn, this fuels greater innovation and more sustainable practices that benefit us all.   

Feature Recipe

Banana Pancakes with Caramel Sauce Recipe  

We’ve given pancakes “A Farm Boy Fresh Twist” with a crave-worthy boost of bananas! This recipe starts with convenient Farm Boy™ Buttermilk Pancake Mix and gets even better by loading the batter with fresh Equifruit bananas. Once cooked, the pancakes are topped with a generous helping of luscious, gooey banana caramel sauce. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for brunch, dessert, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Got leftover sauce? Drizzle it over Farm Boy™ Vanilla Ice Cream for a treat that’s totally next-level. 

Full recipe here: Banana Pancakes with Caramel Sauce Recipe