Palestinian olive oil in Bradwell store

THE Co-operative has become the first supermarket to stock Fairtrade Palestinian olive oil - the first Palestinian product to receive Fairtrade certification.

THE Co-operative has become the first supermarket to stock Fairtrade Palestinian olive oil - the first Palestinian product to receive Fairtrade certification.

The Equal Exchange Fairtrade Palestinian Extra Virgin Olive Oil will be available in Anglia Co-operative's larger stores, including the Rainbow Foodstore in Bradwell.

Growers are struggling to make a living in the region and the move is hoped to help deprived Palestinian farmers and boost their income.

The announcement is timed to coincide with Fairtrade Fortnight.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has welcomed the announcement, saying: “I'm delighted that Fairtrade-certified Palestinian olive oil is to go on sale in British supermarkets. Olive oil production plays an essential part in the West Bank economy. In buying this oil, British shoppers will be helping the farmers of Palestine to make a living.”

Initially some 265 growers in the region will benefit from Fairtrade status, but the intention is to bring as many growers as possible into the scheme.

Andy Arbon, Sales and Development Manager for Anglia Co-operative commented: “Anglia Co-operative has supported Fairtrade since its inception and we are pleased to be able to announce our local stores will be stocking the Fairtrade Palestinian olive oil.”