Name: Keith Bearden
Company Name: Alter Eco
Location: 3200 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77027
Why did you choose to create a certified organic product?
Alter Eco has always been committed to providing the highest quality product possible. Being organic provides products that are free of pesticides, harmful chemicals, and artificial additives. Offering an organic product also allows us to focus on our environmental impact and long-term sustainability, emphasizing organic and regenerative farming practices that are better for the planet, farmer, and end-consumer.
How long has your brand been certified organic?
Since 2004
Is it difficult to source certified organic ingredients?
Yes, it’s extremely difficult. Especially with the fluctuating pricing of cacao beans, and convincing farmers to stay organic when they can easily make as much profit on a non-organic crop. Putting the cost of certifications back on the farmer is difficult, but fortunately, we have established long-running relationships with our source farmers and have shown them the benefits of such. The farmers we partner with are as equally committed to organic and regenerative practices, minimizing our carbon footprint and increasing soil health and biodiversity for generations to come.
What myth would you like to bust about being an organic food pioneer or the organic industry as a whole?
There is a lot of skepticism around organic certifications and companies “green-washing” their products to appear more sustainable. Alter Eco has always believed in transparency with our customers, from our ingredient sourcing to our packaging materials. We want our customers to know exactly what they are purchasing and consuming, and to be proud of their product choices. Our chocolate products are made with clean, organic, gluten-free, fair-for-life ingredients and packaged in compostable or recyclable materials. Alter Eco tastes better because we are made better.
What is the biggest challenge you face as an organic pioneer?
The continued increase and fluctuation of the cacao market, continue to convince farmers to remain organic certified despite it being easier to sell their crops conventionally, the volatile political climate, and the current tariff wars.
Where do you see organic food, farming, and products in the next 5 years?
A continued push towards more organic products, especially those grown regeneratively. As the younger generations drive buying power, they are labeling more brands as “green-washing” and demanding more transparency about consumer goods. The younger consumer is taking the time to better research and understand the companies they support before purchasing their products. This will ultimately push the demand towards better quality goods and transparent company voices.
What advice would you give to a younger generation of entrepreneurs looking to get into the organic industry?
They will need a strong understanding of the supply chain, the importance of having a vertically integrated supply chain to continue to support your company’s growth, and a comprehensive understanding of the regulations surrounding organic certifications.
Learn more about Alter Eco
