M&S To Switch To Soya-Free Animal Feed In Milk Supply Chain

UK retailer Marks & Spencer plans to eliminate soya from animal feed in its milk supply chain in a bid to curb deforestation.

The move is also a part of the retailer’s innovation programme, which focuses on exploring protein alternatives to soy, as well as different feed formulations.

'Devastating Impact'

M&S Food’s director of technology, Paul Willgoss, said, “Soya is widely used in animal feed across the industry because it is fast-growing and protein-rich, but we are all aware of the devastating impact its use is having on Brazilian forests.”

The retailer has already collaborated with around 44 British farmers supplying RSPCA Assured milk to achieve this goal.

The suppliers have replaced soya with alternatives, such as rapeseed oil and sugar beet, which are as nutritious and healthy as soya, the retailer added.

'A Critical Step'

Willgoss added, “We are incredibly proud of the team’s hard work to move 100% of the animal feed in our milk supply chain to high-performing soya alternatives.

"This marks a critical step in our journey as we continue working to play our part in ending deforestation.”

Marks & Spencer also aims to ensure 100% of the soya used in its products is sourced through approved or recognised sustainable soya schemes, including the Round Table for Responsible Soy (RTRS) and Proterra, by the end of 2020.

Zero-Deforestation Pledge

The company is working towards its zero-deforestation pledge, which covers ingredients including soy and palm oil, wood and paper and textiles made from wood pulp.

Dr Emma Keller, head of Food Commodities at WWF, commented, "It matters that M&S is stepping up its commitment, because if we transform the way we produce food and change what we choose to eat we can turn things around for the health of our planet.

"We want to see food companies make the soy they use more sustainable but also to diversify and reduce dependence on single commodities.”