Kroger sets new produce supplier biodiversity requirements

In a move intended to advance sustainability in its fresh produce supply chain and further protect pollinators and biodiversity, The Kroger Co. says it will require all of its fresh produce suppliers to use Integrated Pest Management practices for all products supplied to Kroger by 2028 or 2030, based on the grower's size.

Medium- to large-sized growers will be expected to meet the goal by the end of 2028, and small-sized growers by 2030, according to a news release.

"We depend on a healthy and resilient agriculture supply chain to keep bringing fresh, affordable food to more of America," Lisa Zwack, head of sustainability for Kroger, said in the release. "This new goal reflects Kroger's evolving approach to sustainability and resource conservation, including setting clear expectations with growers to support the transition to more sustainable fresh food production."

The Cincinnati-based grocer says protecting biodiversity is an important part of its community impact strategy, “Thriving Together.”

By encouraging growers to use less pesticides, the company says it’s taking meaningful steps to improve pollinator health outcomes. This work builds on Kroger's existing focus on conserving natural resources in its supply chain, including through its seafood sustainability and no-deforestation commitments.

Kroger worked with the Sustainable Food Group, a branch of IPM Institute of North America, to develop the goal and roadmap to compliance. The company also consulted current best practices and interviewed suppliers to ensure the goal was both impactful and achievable, the release said.

"We are incredibly proud to have supported Kroger in the development of this policy, which will drive positive outcomes for biodiversity, including pollinator and broader agro-ecosystem health through adoption of robust Integrated Pest Management and other sustainable agriculture practices across fresh produce supply chains," Ariel Larson, senior project manager at Sustainable Food Group, said in the release.

Suppliers can comply by achieving one of the following certifications:

• Bee Better.
• Biodynamic.
• Certified Sustainably Grown.
• Equitable Food Initiative.
• Fair Trade International.
• Fair Trade USA.
• GlobalG.A.P.
• Leaf Marque.
• MPS-ABC.
• Rainforest Alliance.
• Regenerative Organic.
• Sustainable Food Group Sustainability Standard.
• USDA Organic, or international equivalents.

Kroger says it will continue to expand its focus on sustainable agriculture, biodiversity and conservation.

To take additional steps toward a more sustainable food system, the retailer says it will conduct a supply chain biodiversity risk assessment, pilot biodiversity metrics with row crop and specialty crop suppliers and conduct targeted climate risk assessments within its supply chain.

To learn more about Thriving Together, download Kroger's 2023 report.