Del Monte Foods Champions Sustainability with Upcycled-Certified JOYBA Bubble Teas
Introduction
In an era where environmental sustainability is paramount, Del Monte Foods stands out for its commitment to reducing food waste. The company's recent announcement reveals that all nine flavors of its JOYBA Bubble Teas have received the prestigious Upcycled Certified® status from Where Food Comes From, Inc. This milestone is part of a greater initiative to foster sustainable practices within the food industry.
Reducing Food Waste
Del Monte Foods has shown proactive steps in addressing the pressing issue of food waste, which accounts for approximately $1 trillion lost globally each year. In just one year, the company successfully reclaimed over 265 tons of sweetened syrup through the production of its JOYBA beverages. This innovative approach not only highlights their commitment to sustainability but also serves to educate consumers on the importance of upcycled food options.
Previous Achievements
This is not the first endeavor by Del Monte to embrace the upcycled movement. Back in 2021, they made history with their Blue Lake® Petite Cut and Blue Lake® Farmhouse Cut Green Beans, marking the first canned vegetable products to gain Upcycled Certified® status. These green beans, sourced from Wisconsin and Illinois, further established Del Monte Foods as a leader in sustainable production practices.
The Impact of Upcycling
Upcycling food involves reclaiming surplus ingredients and by-products that would otherwise contribute to waste. As the CEO of Del Monte Foods, Greg Longstreet, aptly stated, "As Growers of Good, we actively seek ways to redirect surplus products, ensuring that what we produce serves a higher purpose." The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is also a significant benefit of this practice.
Amanda Oenbring, CEO of the Upcycled Food Association, emphasized the importance of upcycled foods in combating climate change, noting that initiatives like Del Monte's are vital for raising awareness among consumers. The leadership that brands like Del Monte show can lead the charge in fostering a healthier planet through improved awareness of food waste reduction.
Company Mission and Future Goals
Del Monte Foods is dedicated to nourishing people and communities with the goodness of the earth. As they strive towards net-zero emissions, they remain committed to sustainable practices throughout their supply chain. Their monumental achievement of diverting over 3 million pounds of food from landfills in fiscal year 2024 through upcycling showcases their resolve to minimize food waste and maximize resource efficiency.
The company is continuously looking for new ways to ensure that every aspect of their production contributes to a positive environmental impact. As they evolve, their focus on responsible sourcing and product innovation ensures that they remain a leader in the plant-based food space.
Conclusion
With initiatives like their JOYBA Bubble Teas, Del Monte Foods not only champions sustainability but also sets an example for other companies in the food industry. By adopting practices that reduce waste and promote healthful living, they are paving the way toward a more sustainable future. To learn more about Del Monte's sustainability goals and their extensive efforts in combating food waste, you can visit their website, where they share detailed insights into their practices and ambitions for a healthier tomorrow.
By actively engaging with the Upcycled Food Association and leading the charge in food waste reduction, Del Monte Foods is inspiring a movement that could change the landscape of how the food industry views sustainability. It is an exciting time for both consumers and the environment, as companies like Del Monte continue to innovate by turning surplus into something extraordinary.