FDF launches new guide for sustainable palm oil sourcing

The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has launched a new guide for food and drink manufacturers to encourage them for the use of sustainably produced palm oil.

All UK-based food business operators will need to identify containing palm oil under the new EU Food Information for Consumers Regulation, which came into effect last Saturday (13 December).

FDF developed the guide titled ‘Sustainable Palm Oil – Five Steps to Ensure Responsible Sourcing’ along with Central Point of Expertise on Timber (CPET).

The guide presents a simple approach to map the use of palm oil, guidance on key risks and opportunities, as well as tips for developing a time-bound commitment and roadmap to sourcing certified sustainable palm oil.

Manufacturers will be advised on the use of sustainable palm oil and improve the sustainability of supply chains.

Food and Drink Federation director-general Melanie Leech said: "As global demand for palm oil is rising rapidly and consumers are increasingly seeking reassurance that the products they buy have been sustainably sourced, it makes good business sense to assess your use of this vital ingredient.

"Many of our members have long-standing public commitments to source 100% certified sustainable palm oil and we have seen continued progress in the last year with a growing number of companies having successfully achieved their original commitments.

"Leading manufacturers have announced revised commitments and action plans to source 100% traceable oil that exceeds Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certification standards. We hope that this new guide will help food and drink manufacturers of all sizes plan a strategic and actionable approach to sourcing palm oil more sustainably."