Its strategy to lower carbon emissions and their effects on the environment includes a gradual transition to more plant-based proteins, which can also aid in achieving nutritional and health goals.
The value for customers
By encouraging a shift towards a more plant-rich diet, Ahold Delhaize’s local brands aim to provide greater value and choice to their customers. This includes offering delicious, nutritious, and affordable options that cater to diverse lifestyles and preferences.
Ahold Delhaize’s commitment highlights its efforts to drive the transition to a healthier and more sustainable food system. Approximately 95% of the company’s emissions are outside of its own operations, within the value chain. This includes the footprint of all products sold in the stores of the local brands. Products that contain animal-based proteins represent the highest emissions due to land use, feed, and processing activities. By rebalancing protein sales and advancing the development of lower carbon emission animal products, Ahold Delhaize is addressing emissions in line with its climate ambition.
Inspiring customers to make healthier and more sustainable choices
Claude Sarrailh, CEO of Ahold Delhaize Europe and Indonesia comments: “We are committed to inspiring healthier and more sustainable lifestyles by focusing on what truly matters to our brands’ customers. While supporting the shift to more plant-based proteins, we also work closely with our animal protein producers and suppliers to help reduce the environmental impact of their products. Our goal is to serve all customers and honor their diverse food preferences, while encouraging them to explore plant-rich options more often. Even small changes in the shopping habits of millions of customers each week can collectively make a positive impact on the health of people and planet.”
Daniella Vega, Senior Vice President Health & Sustainability at Ahold Delhaize added: “At Ahold Delhaize and our local brands, we view healthier, more sustainable diets as a chance to deliver exceptional value to customers — including great attention to quality, taste, nutrition, and affordability. Collaborating closely with our suppliers and partners, we are committed to inspiring everyone to make choices that support better eating and better living”.
Sustainable choices: the support
Building on years of experience in supporting healthier dietary choices and working with healthy sales targets, Ahold Delhaize is increasingly helping customers to make more sustainable choices. The brands’ strategies are tailored to their local markets and customer preferences. These include:
- Actively promoting plant-based product ranges and offering lower-carbon animal protein assortments.
- Working together with farmers and partners to reduce emissions of animal protein products.
- Leveraging loyalty programs and incentives to encourage customers to choose plant-based alternatives.
- Investing in inspiration and education, helping customers discover the benefits of healthier and more sustainable choices.
notes:
- (*) Romanian food retailer Profi became part of the Ahold Delhaize family of brands in January 2025 and is not yet part of this target.
- The EAT Lancet Commission concluded in its report that a diet rich in plant-based foods and with fewer animal-derived foods confers both improved health and environmental benefits.
- Link to European Commission Farm to Fork strategy, including a section on protein transition.
