The Hershey Company says it will work with its suppliers to achieve 100% traceable and sustainably sourced palm oil by the end of 2014.
This announcement comes after the company has achieved its commitment to source 100% mass balanced Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified palm oil more than a year ahead of its original 2015 commitment,
New supplier requirements
While The Hershey Company is a very small consumer in the palm oil market, the additional step of 100% traceability will assure that the palm oil in its supply chain is produced using the most rigorous sustainability practices.
To achieve this commitment, the company will work closely with its suppliers and industry experts to ensure palm oil comes from sustainable sources.
Suppliers will be required to independently verify that sources:
• Do not contribute to deforestation or the destruction of wildlife habitat,
• Do not clear high carbon stock forests,
• Do not contribute to peat land expansion, and
• Operate in compliance with local laws and regulations.
The goal of these requirements is to identify palm oil producers that are engaging in unsustainable practices, work with suppliers to remediate these actions and, if necessary, remove these producers from Hershey’s supply chain.
In November, Hershey’s palm oil sourcing efforts were recognized in the World Wildlife Fund’s 2013 Palm Oil Buyers Scorecard, where the company scored 10 out of a possible 12 points with 12 being the highest score.
