In a story about Olivado published on October 31 we reported that the company's Kenyan factory had an open sewer next to its water supply.
This was incorrect and was based on a March 2008 report that preceded the renovation and upgrading of the factory.
The company saysthese improvements were concluded before the start of food oil production.
Sales figures quoted in the story were for New Zealand only, not worldwide.
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Letter to the editor
A Weekend Herald story on Olivado suggested the company's production factory in Kenya had unhygienic facilities. This was incorrect. It was based on a March 2008 report that discussed three possible production sites. The factory with an open sewer has never been used by Olivado. The report also preceded the renovation and upgrading of Olivado's Kenya factory.
Substantial improvements were concluded before commencement of food oil production and the factory has been rigorously inspected. It complies fully with the highest international standards of food production and the suggestion that there are deficiencies is wrong. It is important to note that the person who alleged that nothing had changed at the factory had actually been informed of the upgrading of the factory in March 2008. This person is now working for a competing venture and has made other incorrect allegations concerning Olivado.
The article referred to a shooting incident involving Alan Mountfort. After the shooting incident Mr Mountfort sent an email to Olivado directors stating: 'I think it important to note that this has nothing to do wit considth the company so please do noer that it will reflect badly upon the company."
Olivado is producing a record 100,000 litres of oil in each of Kenya and New Zealand this year; it is the world's biggest producer of organic and fair trade extra virgin avocado oil that attracts an international premium, especially in Europe. Olivado exports to over 15 countries.
