Episode 8

Sustainable, Ethically Made Mis-Matchable Socks and Determining the True Cost of a Product with Melita Cyril from Q for Quinn

In today's episode, we chat with Melita Cyril from Q for Quinn. We explore the environmental costs of manufacturing conventional cotton, and the potential health risks of the colourful dyes, and pesticides used. We learn how Melita’s trip to an orphanage on her thirteenth birthday and her newborns son’s eczema both inspired Melita to create change, how she’s carefully selected her manufacturing partners in developing countries, and why she feels that there are many more things we need to consider when determining the true cost of a product.

If you want to Learn more about Melita and her certified organic, mismatchable socks, visit https://www.qforquinn.com.  Looking to buy a pair? Through Mary's Meals and the 1 pair = 1 meal initiative, Melita has donated 28,000 meals. You can follow along with Melita on her mission to create comfortable and practical basics which are gentle for your skin and for the planet on Facebook at qforquinnshop or Instagram at q.for.quinn.

Links from this episode

Challenges for Cotton

Azo dye

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX

Mary’s Meals

Externality - Wikipedia

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This episode is brought to you by Hip Mommies, carefully curated wholesale merchandise for modern retail. If you want to stock your shelves with brands that are socially responsible and sustainable, or if you want to be a part of the collection that is delighting Canadian retail, visit hipmommies.ca.

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About the Podcast

Show artwork for the Cost Of Goods Sold
the Cost Of Goods Sold
the environmental & social costs of what we buy. Sustainability, social entrepreneurship & conscious consumerism.

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About your host

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Jennifer Chua

I’m Jennifer Myers Chua. A curious and creative type, an entrepreneur, creative director and podcaster. With a background in web and digital design, I co-founded an import/distribution business focused on sustainable and innovative goods for conscious retail. I’m currently exploring the environmental and social costs of the things we buy with the Cost Of Goods Sold podcast.