In the remote Sambirano River valley in Madagascar, small-scale farming families work together to grow the high-quality Trinitario cacao. In the form of the Mateza cooperative, they plant the cacao fruit in accordance with strict sustainability criteria and pick it carefully by hand. Sprüngli is prepared to pay fair prices above the market rate in order to create the finest grand cru chocolate from top-quality cacao.
Salama Mateza – health insurance for cacao farmers
Salama Mateza means ‘Healthy Mateza’ in Malagasy. As the main sponsor of the project with the same name, Sprüngli facilitated the development of the requisite healthcare infrastructure and covered the health insurance contributions of more than 370 families. The isolated location of the Sambirano River valley meant the majority of cacao farmers there were shut out of the health system. Salama Mateza has brought about a lasting improvement in medical care for cacao farmers.
The pilot project, which was launched in collaboration with Sprüngli’s long-standing partner Max Felchlin AG, has now been handed over to local control. Since summer 2023, Felchlin’s local partner has been paying for all the insurance premiums for their farmers themselves. Now that the important development work is complete, ‘Salama Mateza’ has become self-sufficient, which was the project’s aim from the outset. Max Felchlin AG is maintaining its support for the project locally to ensure that it continues to run successfully in the spirit in which it was initiated.
Grand Cru Trinitario de Sambirano, Madagascar
The top-quality grand cru Trinitario cacao beans grow in Sambirano in Madagascar. We use these in all our grand cru truffles, employing traditional craftsmanship and the utmost care, to create a true delight for all the senses. Discover delicious chocolate indulgence with a balanced bouquet featuring a light, fresh citrus note and uniquely intense cacao flavour.
Healthcare for cacao farmers
Sprüngli is involved in the provision of professional healthcare in various countries where its grand cru cacao originates. Find out more about all our projects in Madagascar, Ghana, Ecuador and Venezuela here.
Find out more about how we are committed to sustainability in individual areas
Raw materials
We choose to use our raw materials responsibly.
Value chain
We are committed to long-term, sustainable business practices, and we also require this from our partners.
Sustainability manifesto
Sprüngli takes responsibility.