Building a Legacy of Sustainability

November 19, 2024

Building a Legacy of Sustainability

When it comes to building a brand rooted in sustainability, purpose, and innovation, Caryl Levine and Ken Lee, the founders of Lotus Foods, have paved an inspiring path. As pioneers in the organic rice industry, they've redefined what it means to source and market rice, creating products that delight customers and support environmental stewardship and small farming communities worldwide. In a recent podcast episode of Collabs.io Mag: Brand Architects, Caryl and Ken shared their journey, challenges, and the passion that drives Lotus Foods.

One of the standout aspects of Lotus Foods is our dedication to sustainability. Caryl and Ken were among the first to introduce the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), what we call More Crop Per Drop® to American consumers. SRI is a cultivation method that uses less water, fewer chemicals, and enables higher yields. For Lotus Foods, SRI became a cornerstone of our brand, allowing us to support regenerative farming practices and contribute to global water conservation.

Implementing SRI also reflected Caryl and Ken’s commitment to ethical sourcing and their goal to empower farmers. They recognized that conventional farming practices often placed heavy demands on the environment and limited farmers' potential to thrive economically. SRI, on the other hand, offered a way to increase farmers' income and reduce their environmental footprint—a win-win situation for everyone.

Creating Products with a Purpose

Lotus Foods is known for its diverse and distinctive rice offerings, but these products are more than just rice; they tell a story. Each variety is carefully selected, not just for its unique taste or nutritional benefits but for the cultural heritage and sustainable farming methods it represents. This product line resonates with consumers who seek transparency and purpose.