Mars Petcare hits 100% sustainably sourced fish target in Europe

Mars Pet Nutrition has announced that it has hit its target to sustainably source 100% of its fish used in its European business.

Its sustainably sourced fish supply is reportedly endorsed by “credible” third parties and from fisheries that maintain “the diversity of the fish ecosystem”.

The group said the latest move was “an an important milestone” in its global sustainability journey, which includes the “industry-leading” global target to procure 100% sustainably sourced fish across all of its pet food products.

It added that it will continue to work with certified organisations and industry experts to scale its approach to more sustainable fish sourcing across the business.

Its sustainable sourcing programme includes ensuring that the company does not source any endangered fish species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

With the help of World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and fisheries experts, the group also revises its fish sourcing guidelines so they are aligned to international standards and “consistently drives for positive environmental and human rights practices in its fish supply chains”.

Its fish sustainable sourcing programme also ensures that the company does not source any endangered fish species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

The move towards sustainably sourced fish forms part of the company’s $1bn (£7.9m) ‘Sustainable in a Generation’ plan.

Michael Griff, director for ocean markets at WWF, said: “Mars has been one of the first WWF partners to commit to a more sustainable pet food supply chain and we are thrilled to see the progress Mars Petcare has achieved in its journey to ensure better sourcing practices. We will continue to work together to reduce pressure on our oceans and preserve its resources.”

Deri Watkins, regional president at Mars Pet Nutrition, added: “At Mars Petcare, everything we do is focused on our Purpose: A Better World for Pets – and a better world is a more sustainable world, for pets, people and the planet. Mars Pet Nutrition uses fish in its portfolio of pet food products as it enables pets to enjoy nutritionally balanced, healthy, and high-quality pet food.

“While our business accounts for a small share of the global seafood market, we continue to play our part in supporting a healthy future for ocean ecosystems and the seafood sector helping all to grow and thrive in a responsible way.”

Mert Kacmaz, commercial vice president at Mars Pet Nutrition, said: “Reaching our 100% sustainably sourced fish target in Europe is a great testament to what can be achieved in close collaboration with our suppliers, through years of rigorous work and a bold commitment to drive sustainability at scale.

“At Mars Petcare, we employ a holistic approach to responsible sourcing while focusing on driving greater supply chain accountability, verification, and transparency. We work with our suppliers to ensure we source high quality raw materials, in a way that complies with our Supplier Code of Conduct and aligns with our sustainability expectations.”

He added: “As we continue to take action to improve our environmental footprint across our supply chains, we’re focused on doing business that not only meets the nutritional needs of the pets we serve, but also builds a better, more sustainable world for all.”