Bel Group Canada sets new targets as part of strategy to eliminate food waste
Bel Group Canada is committed to zero destruction of finished products by 2030 as part of its Charter to fight against food waste.
To mark the United Nations International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction on Sept. 29, the snack manufacturer announced its efforts to halve food waste at the global level by 2030, while working to improve food security.
"Bel Group Canada is determined to make a real difference through transformative actions, as our team firmly believes that aligning business objectives with sustainable practices is crucial to our ongoing success," said Cristine Laforest, CEO of Bel Group Canada, in a statement. "By prioritizing environmental responsibility, starting at our production facility in Sorel-Tracy all the way to the consumer's plate, we are proud to take meaningful steps in the fight against food waste. These initiatives align with our mission to offer healthy and responsible food to all."
Beginning with a focus on its manufacturing processes at the Babybel production plant in Sorel-Tracy, Que., the company has: optimized production efficiency to reduce losses by 76% since the facility opened in 2020; invested in specialized equipment; and found reuse opportunities for whey (a byproduct of cheese production).
Bel Group Canada also works on an ongoing basis with its distribution partner, Congébec, to avoid food loss during warehousing and transportation. Since the spring of 2023, the company has optimized some of its distribution routes to be more direct.
The company additionally supports Food Banks Canada, which includes ongoing product donations, contribution to the After the Bell summer program and an in-store fundraising activation that will take place in November.
In 2022, Bel Group Canada donated over $1 million in products, and is targeting to reach $1.6 million in 2023, in addition to $100,000 to support programs like After the Bell, totaling $1.7 million.
