Based in rural Kenya, Meru Herbs began life as part of a community water project. What started as an effort to improve access to clean water has grown into a successful fair trade enterprise producing organic jams, sauces and herbal teas while creating employment and opportunities for local people.
A community-led beginning
The story of Meru Herbs dates back to 1989, when a water project was established to improve access to clean water in the local community.
Once the project was up and running, residents faced an important challenge: how could it be maintained and funded in the long term?
The solution was to create an income-generating business that could support the project while creating local jobs. Meru Herbs was established and began producing value-added food products using ingredients grown by local farmers.
More than 30 years later, the cooperative continues to support both livelihoods and community development.
Creating opportunities through fair trade
From the beginning, Meru Herbs has operated according to fair trade principles, helping ensure that producers and workers benefit directly from the success of the business.
The organisation creates employment opportunities within the local community, particularly for women and young people. These jobs provide income, skills development and greater financial independence, helping families invest in their futures.
Today, hundreds of small-scale producers contribute to the cooperative, supplying ingredients that are transformed into the products enjoyed by customers around the world.
From farm to finished product
Meru Herbs works with local farmers who grow ingredients including tropical fruits, tomatoes and hibiscus using organic farming methods.
These ingredients are carefully processed into a range of jams, sauces and teas at the Meru Herbs production facility. Both the farms and processing unit are organically certified, reflecting a commitment to quality, sustainability and responsible production.
Every stage of the process is carefully managed to ensure the finished products are both delicious and ethically produced.
Working with True Origin
Bringing products from rural Kenya to UK customers requires strong partnerships.
Meru Herbs works with fair trade importer True Origin, an organisation dedicated to supporting producers and helping ethical products reach a wider audience. Through this partnership, Meru Herbs has been able to strengthen quality standards, develop new opportunities and continue investing in the future of the cooperative.
Looking ahead
Meru Herbs continues to look for ways to grow while staying true to the principles on which it was founded. Future plans include supporting more producers, creating additional employment opportunities and expanding the range of products available to customers.
Alongside this growth, the cooperative remains committed to sustainable farming, responsible production and supporting the local community that helped build its success.
Discover the range
From fruity jams and rich sauces to refreshing herbal teas, Meru Herbs products combine great taste with a strong commitment to fair trade and community development.
Explore our True Origin Meru Herbs range and discover the story behind every jar, bottle and box.
