SL Produce doubles down on sustainable practices due to severe drought

 As a result of the unprecedented drought affecting the Mexican state of Sinaloa, which has caused widespread crop losses and reduced regional output, SL Produce is increasing its investment in sustainable agricultural practices. 

In a press release, the vegetable greenhouse grower and exporter said its strategy focuses on new cultivation methods, varietal testing, and the development of a dedicated department for soil regeneration.

New treatments include enhancing soil health with beneficial bacteria and marine algae, as well as varietal development that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

“The topic of sustainability might sound nice, and it can help you sell. But for us, the backbone of our business is returning to the soil what we have taken out,” said Ivonne Lugo, SL’s marketing and PR manager. “We have a changing climate that we can’t control, a drought that has affected everyone here, plus other external factors, and all of this has led us to take sustainability very seriously.”

With a large area of northern Mexico experiencing the worst drought in decades, according to Lugo, the company made the strategic decision to maintain production at 2024 levels rather than expanding.

The brand says its biggest investment is, and will continue to be, in sustainability, "with a focus on ensuring a viable future in all of the regions where it operates."

SL Produce grows and markets green beans, bell peppers, American slicer cucumbers, zucchini, sweetcorn, yellow squash, and grey squash, and is marketed under the Tenderland brand.

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