Is SIMPLi ethical?

Overview

Simpli (often branded as SIMPLi) is a mission-driven food company that has emerged as a leader in the sustainable pantry goods sector. Founded with the intent to fix a broken global food system, the brand focuses on sourcing nutrient-dense ingredients primarily from the Andean highlands of South America and other global regions practicing traditional agriculture. Their product lineup, which includes quinoa, beans, lentils, and oils, is consistently ranked at the top of ethical consumer indices due to their holistic approach to environmental stewardship and social equity. Unlike conventional brands that rely on mass-commodity brokers, Simpli operates through a vertically integrated supply chain, allowing for full traceability from the high-altitude farms to the consumer's plate.

Certifications

The brand's commitment to external validation is extensive, holding several of the most rigorous certifications in the food industry. Simpli is a Certified B Corporation, meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Most notably, they are a pioneer in the Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC™) movement, which goes beyond traditional organic standards to focus on soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness. Their products also carry the USDA Organic seal, Fair Trade certifications, and the Non-GMO Project Verified badge. Their commitment to the environment is further solidified by their Climate Neutral certification and membership in 1% for the Planet, where they donate a portion of sales to environmental causes.

Animal testing & vegan range

As a plant-based food producer, Simpli does not engage in animal testing, nor do their products contain animal-derived ingredients. Their entire range—comprising grains, legumes, and pastas—is inherently vegan. While they do not explicitly market themselves as a 'vegan lifestyle' brand, their dedication to regenerative organic plant proteins makes them a staple for ethically-minded vegan consumers. The brand’s focus on biodiversity and soil health naturally supports local ecosystems and wildlife, aligning with broader cruelty-free values by preserving natural habitats through non-toxic, chemical-free farming methods.

Sustainability pledges

Simpli’s sustainability strategy is centered on the principle of regenerative agriculture as a tool for climate change mitigation. By incentivizing farmers to use cover cropping, crop rotation, and reduced tillage, Simpli helps sequester carbon in the soil and improve water retention. The brand has pledged to expand its ROC™ acreage significantly over the next decade. Furthermore, being Climate Neutral Certified means the company measures, offsets, and reduces all of its operational carbon emissions. Their participation in 1% for the Planet ensures that their financial success directly contributes to grassroots environmental non-profits, focusing on reforestation and soil conservation initiatives.

Sourcing & labor

Labor ethics are a cornerstone of the Simpli model. The brand bypasses predatory middlemen who often exploit smallholder farmers in South America. Through Fair Trade practices, Simpli ensures that farmers receive a living wage and a 'social premium' that can be invested back into community projects like schools or healthcare. Their sourcing model is built on long-term partnerships rather than spot-market transactions, providing economic stability to indigenous communities in Peru and beyond. The vertical integration of their supply chain allows for rigorous auditing of labor conditions, ensuring that no forced or child labor is present at any stage of production.

Controversies context

To date, there are no major controversies, legal disputes, or significant ethical breaches on record for Simpli. The company maintains a high degree of transparency regarding its supply chain and financial commitments. While many global food brands face criticism for 'greenwashing' or deceptive labeling, Simpli’s reliance on third-party auditors like B Lab and the Regenerative Organic Alliance provides a robust defense against such claims. They have successfully avoided the common pitfalls of the quinoa industry, such as price volatility that harms local consumption, by maintaining consistent, fair-price contracts with their growing partners.

Bottom line

Simpli represents the 'gold standard' for ethical pantry staples. With scores consistently exceeding 90/100 on ethical benchmarks, the brand is a top recommendation for consumers who prioritize climate action and labor rights. Their Organic Heirloom Quinoa and Regenerative Organic Lentils are particularly high-scoring due to their combination of B Corp status, ROC™ certification, and Climate Neutral verification. Choosing Simpli is more than a purchase; it is a direct investment in a regenerative food system that prioritizes the health of the planet and the dignity of the farmers who feed it.