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Ahold Delhaize USA (ADUSA), a prominent operator of 2,050 stores, has joined forces with the Thai Union Group in the pursuit of sustainability and traceability within the shrimp supply chain. This partnership is part of the Shrimp Decarbonization Initiative, an ambitious program aimed at significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with shrimp production.
Goals and Targets
Developed in conjunction with global environmental organization The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the initiative sets forth a bold objective: to produce 1,000 metric tons of processed shrimp that not only boasts lower environmental impact but also adheres to the highest product quality standards.
One of the key features of this initiative is the assurance of full traceability throughout the shrimp’s journey, from hatchery to point of shipment. This commitment to transparency ensures accountability and builds trust among consumers.
Operational Details
The shrimp, imported by Thai Union subsidiary, Chicken of the Sea Frozen Foods, will find its way to the shelves of ADUSA’s Food Lion and Hannaford stores. Marc Stolzman, Chief Sustainability Officer for ADUSA, emphasizes the company’s dedication to sustainability and responsible sourcing across its supply chain.
Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Thai Union, underscores the broader implications of the Shrimp Decarbonization Initiative. It’s not just about emissions reduction; it’s about reshaping the shrimp industry into a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable sector.
Investments for Sustainability
The initiative’s primary focus lies in making on-farm investments to enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. These efforts include reducing energy usage, sourcing sustainable feed ingredients, and implementing best practices.
With the success of the pilot program, Thai Union aims to scale these efforts across other shrimp farms in Thailand and beyond. This expansion will introduce sustainable interventions to support the industry’s transition towards more environmentally friendly practices.