Pilgrim’s UK has committed to using fully verified, zero-deforestation sustainable soya to feed its pigs by 2025.
The producer, which currently has the lowest soya usage in pig diets in Europe and this has been validated for the last two consecutive years, accounts for 99% of all the responsibly sourced soya supplied in Europe since 2019.
As part of its Pilgrim’s UK 2030 sustainability plan, the business has committed to going further in ensuring all of the soya in its pig diets is sourced through sustainable methods that do not harm the natural environment. This involves reducing soya usage where possible, and ensuring that the soya that is used is sourced sustainably.
Pilgrim’s UK carried out a series of trials to support the reformulation of its pigs’ diets, sourcing practical alternatives where possible, with further trials are planned later this year.
Matt Dight, head of sustainability at Pilgrim’s UK, said they were committed to using sustainable soya across their operations, helping to consolidate a sector-wide approach: “We are extremely proud to have taken a leading role in developing discussions and initiatives in this space, as well as trialling more innovative alternative proteins in our pigs’ diets.
“We know that methods of soya farming can have a harmful impact on the environment, and the meat industry has a responsibility to remove soya produced in this way from its supply chains. Through our Pilgrim’s UK 2030 sustainability plan we are leading the way in this area, with clear targets and ambitions to drive change within the next decade.”
