Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. (NYSE: FDP), a global leader in the production, marketing, and distribution of high-quality fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, has once again demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by winning the prestigious 2025 SEAL Business Sustainability Award in the Environmental Initiative category. This marks the fourth time in five years that the company has been recognized for its leadership in sustainable business practices. Fresh Del Monte received this honor for surpassing its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets seven years ahead of schedule, achieving a 27.5% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions well before its original 2030 goal.
Hans Sauter, Fresh Del Monte’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Senior Vice President of Corporate R&D and Agriculture, expressed the company’s pride in this achievement while acknowledging that the journey towards sustainability is ongoing. “Surpassing our Scope 1 and Scope 2 reduction targets seven years ahead of schedule is a milestone we are proud of, but we know our work is far from over. With a new goal of a 30% reduction by 2030 compared to our 2019 baseline, we remain committed to science-driven solutions that push the boundaries of sustainable agriculture and further minimize our environmental impact,” Sauter stated.
A Commitment to Science-Based Targets
Fresh Del Monte has been at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, becoming the first global marketer of fruits and vegetables to commit to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). As part of this commitment, the company set ambitious goals to reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 27.5% and its Scope 3 emissions by 12.3% by 2030. These targets, which were approved by the SBTi in 2021, align with the objectives of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2°C.
Exceeding its Scope 1 and Scope 2 reduction goals years ahead of schedule is the result of a multi-faceted approach that includes strategic investments in technology, process optimization, and sustainable practices. One of the most significant initiatives contributing to this success is the company’s investment in a new North American ocean fleet. Fresh Del Monte has introduced six state-of-the-art hydrodynamic vessels designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce shipping times, leading to substantial reductions in overall emissions.
Another key element of the company’s sustainability strategy is the introduction of Del Monte Zero® Pineapple, the world’s first certified carbon-neutral pineapple. By creating demand for more environmentally friendly products, Fresh Del Monte has encouraged greater awareness and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the company has deployed advanced technology and software to monitor plant nutrient requirements, which helps prevent excess nutrient run-off and further lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with agricultural production.
Recognition from SEAL Awards
The SEAL Business Sustainability Awards, now in their ninth year, celebrate companies that demonstrate true leadership in environmental and social governance (ESG). The awards recognize those who take innovative and meaningful actions to create a more sustainable future. SEAL Awards Chairperson and Founder Matt Harney emphasized the increasing depth and impact of sustainability efforts across industries.
“2025 represents our ninth-year SEAL Business Sustainability Award event. This year’s ESG award recipients follow a 9-year trendline of greater impact materiality and deeper granularity,” said Harney. “Across all industries and geographies, companies are going deep and granular — into materials, chemistry, processes, R&D, supply chains, and more — to generate sustainability improvements.”
Leading by Example in Sustainable Agriculture
Fresh Del Monte has long been a leader in sustainability within the agricultural sector, pioneering innovative practices that contribute to a healthier planet. One of the company’s primary sustainability strategies is the revalorization of agricultural waste. By converting waste into biofertilizers, Fresh Del Monte not only reduces landfill use but also enriches soil health and promotes circular agricultural practices.
Additionally, the company has been at the forefront of regenerative agriculture, a farming approach that restores soil biodiversity and enhances resilience against climate change. By applying rigorous scientific principles to adapt regenerative agriculture to tropical crops, Fresh Del Monte is paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future.
Revolutionizing Farm Management with Digital Tools
Technology plays a crucial role in Fresh Del Monte’s sustainability strategy. The company has adopted digital tools and data-driven solutions to improve farm management practices. By leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, Fresh Del Monte can analyze crop health, optimize irrigation, and reduce resource waste. These digital innovations enable more precise and efficient farming techniques that benefit both the environment and the company’s bottom line.
Moreover, Fresh Del Monte has been a strong advocate for responsible breeding practices. The company has explored both bioengineering and traditional breeding techniques to develop crops that are more resilient to climate change, pests, and diseases. These efforts contribute to food security by ensuring that high-quality produce remains available while minimizing the need for chemical inputs.
A Future of Continuous Sustainability Advancements
Looking ahead, Fresh Del Monte remains committed to advancing sustainability efforts across its global operations. The company continues to identify new opportunities for reducing its environmental footprint while maintaining high standards of quality and freshness. With a revised target of a 30% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2030, Fresh Del Monte is focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies and best practices to further drive sustainability in the agricultural industry.
In addition to emissions reductions, the company is exploring innovative packaging solutions that minimize waste and environmental impact. By investing in biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials, Fresh Del Monte aims to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a circular economy.
Inspiring Industry-Wide Change
Fresh Del Monte’s consistent recognition by the SEAL Business Sustainability Awards underscores its role as a leader in corporate environmental responsibility. By setting ambitious goals and implementing science-driven solutions, the company has not only exceeded expectations but also inspired others in the industry to follow suit.
As the agricultural sector continues to evolve in response to climate change and environmental challenges, Fresh Del Monte remains at the forefront, demonstrating that sustainability and business success can go hand in hand. With a continued focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting regenerative agriculture, leveraging digital innovation, and adopting eco-friendly practices, the company is shaping a more sustainable future for the global food industry.
