Conagra Brands, a heavyweight in CPG circles, is upping its strategy. The latest publication of its 2022 Citizenship Report puts the company’s environmental and social initiatives on the table—and there are some aggressive plans ahead.
"At Conagra, our approach to citizenship supports a healthy planet, healthy communities and a healthy business," said Sean Connolly, President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are conscious about how our business impacts the world and our latest Citizenship Report underscores our focus on collaboration, transparency, and action. It is especially meaningful that our employees continue to drive sustainable and societal impact across our business while producing exceptional results. I thank them for their ongoing dedication to doing the right things and doing things right."
In the report, a press release explained, there are a range of topics that cover four areas: Good Food, Responsible Sourcing, Better Planet, and Stronger Communities.
Some of the highlights are below:
Good Food
As of the end of fiscal year 2022, the company added more than 350 SKUs to states' Women, Infants and Children-approved product lists, enabling access to eligible foods that otherwise would not be available for these shoppers.
Responsible Sourcing
In fiscal 2022, continued growth of plant fiber-based packaging as an alternative to plastic resulted in an estimated 35 million pounds of plastic avoided since 2017—exceeding the company's aim to avoid the use of 33 million pounds of plastic through plant-based packaging options and other packaging innovations.
Better Planet
Through its employee-led Sustainable Development Awards program, since 2009, the company has conserved 3.7 billion gallons of water, decreased its carbon footprint by 215,000 metric tons, reduced waste by 122,700 tons, decreased packaging materials by more than 32,000 tons, and saved over $280 million.
Stronger Communities
To help alleviate hunger and food insecurity, Conagra donated more than 20 million pounds of food to Feeding America and its network of food banks, which is equivalent to more than 16 million meals, while employees across the United States, Canada, and Mexico contributed more than 9,000 hours in volunteer service.
For more information about these highlights, please click here.
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