Mars Expands Nutritious Food Access in Sustainability Push

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Mars has released its newest Sustainable in a Generation Report, outlining the progress made on its initial 2017 plans and targets. Credit: Mars
Mars donated 4.47 million meals and expanded healthier food options including Ben's Original high-protein products in 2025 sustainability report

Mars released its 2025 Sustainable in a Generation Plan report, detailing progress towards environmental targets and community health initiatives. The company's portfolio includes M&M's, Snickers, Whiskas and Pedigree.

In December 2025, Mars completed its acquisition of Kellanova, adding Pringles, Pop-Tarts and Kellogg's international cereals to its brands.

The report's release coincides with Mars achieving 100% renewable electricity across all US operations. According to the company, this marks a major step in its energy transition goals.

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Emissions and energy targets

Mars aims to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 50% by 2030, compared to a 2015 baseline. The company targets net zero emissions by 2050.

According to Mars, it achieved a 16.9% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain in 2025. Scope 1 and 2 emissions fell by 42.6% over the same period.

By 2025, Mars sourced 78.4% of its electricity from renewable sources. The company has set a target of sourcing 100% of its electricity and thermal energy from renewable sources by 2040.

Poul Weihrauch, Chief Executive Officer of Mars, says: "The world our business operates in and depends on, continues to change. Conflict, economic shocks and extreme weather are reshaping how we operate. What was once exceptional is becoming routine, from supply chain disruption to changing growing seasons.

Poul Weihrauch, CEO of Mars

"That is exactly why sustainability is central to how we grow and thrive. Not only because it's the right thing to do for people and the planet, but because it's the only way to build resilience and economic certainty for our business and the thousands of people across our full value chain.

"What gives me confidence is the commitment of our Associates, the strength of our brands and our continued ability to adapt, invest and innovate for the long term. I look forward to continuing to bring joy, nutrition and support to people and pets all over the world. We will continue our efforts to generate good jobs and support our Associates and communities, while continuing to make progress towards a more resilient and more sustainable future for all."

Agriculture and crop resilience

In 2025, Mars supported approximately 77 climate-smart agriculture projects across 26 countries and 12 key crops. The company worked with farmers, researchers and partners across its value chain to support food production methods.

Mars collaborated with PepsiCo and ADM in 2025 to launch a regenerative agriculture programme in Poland. The programme supports 24 farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

According to Mars, the company supported regenerative wheat production across 3,450 hectares for its brands including Whiskas and Pedigree. The wheat is used in pet food products.

Alastair Child, Chief Sustainability Officer at Mars, said on LinkedIn: "Business leaders today are navigating supply chain disruptions, rising costs, geopolitical uncertainty and growing pressure to deliver results in the near term. In that environment, sustainability cannot be viewed as a separate agenda.

Alastair Child, Chief Sustainability Officer at Mars

"The question is no longer whether action on climate and sustainability is the right thing to do. The question is whether we can demonstrate that it creates long-term economic value, strengthens resilience and helps businesses compete and grow. At Mars, we are seeing evidence that it can. But we're also learning that progress is rarely linear, transparency matters and no company can transform systems alone."

Nutritious food and wellbeing

Mars's Sustainable in a Generation Plan includes initiatives to expand access to nutritious food through partnerships and donations. The company says it works to build healthier communities through local programmes.

Mars expanded its portfolio of meal choices with higher protein and fibre content in 2025. Ben's Original products now include options with high protein and high fibre with no artificial ingredients.

Mars Food & Nutrition Australia donated 4.47 million meals in 2025 through its collaborative supply programme with Foodbank Australia. The donations were distributed to communities in need.

Dr Abigail Stevenson, Chief Science Officer at Mars, says: "Nourishing Wellbeing means strengthening our portfolio through science-led, human- and pet-centric decisions, while supporting access to food through our partnerships and community initiatives.

Dr. Abigail Stevenson, Chief Science Officer at Mars

"We are transparent about our progress, clear about the challenges and focused on solutions that create long-term value.

"Real impact comes from collaboration across our value chain to drive resilience, innovation and trust."

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