MorningStar Farms is expanding sustainability efforts, with plans to roll out new recycle-ready packaging for select products, begin sourcing 100% renewable electricity and utilize a new plant-based soy ingredient from Benson Hill that will reduce the brand's impacts on the environment.
MorningStar Farms new recycle-ready packaging for foods in flexible plastic bags will allow consumers to recycle clean and dry bags at retailers that participate in a store drop-off collection. Currently, MorningStar Farms Incogmeato rigid plastic trays and MorningStar Farms foods in paperboard boxes are recycle-ready at curbside in participating communities. The new packaging will appear in stores later this year.
Additionally, MorningStar Farms plans to begin sourcing 100% renewable electricity this year through a virtual power purchase agreement, as well as an investment in renewable energy credits.
"Our dedication and willingness to push boundaries on the sustainability front is something we take pride in," said Sara Young, general manager of plant-based proteins at Kellogg. "We've made it our mission to make plant-based foods that are both good for consumers and the planet. It's become a core principle of our brand and having that as a driver we think truly distinguishes us from other players in the space."
The brand has also partnered with Benson Hill, an innovator in plant-based proteins. Benson Hill has developed varieties of ultra-high protein soybeans that deliver at least 20% more protein right out of the ground compared to commodity U.S. soybeans. Through its partnership, MorningStar Farms can incorporate Benson Hill soy ingredients that require as much as 70% less water and 50% less CO2 through the elimination of a traditional soy processing step.
"Our products are unique in that they deliver sustainability benefits from farm to ingredient," says Bruce Bennett, president of Benson Hill's Ingredient Business. "We're about providing all parties with the tools and resources they need to unlock the potential for holistically better food. Knowing MorningStar Farms is a key player in the plant-based food industry, we're looking forward to working together to make a significant impact."
About MorningStar Farms
For more than 40 years, MorningStar Farms has delivered great-tasting food for anyone looking to integrate more plant-based meals into their lives, in whatever way is right for them - whether that means at breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, or just a few times a week. With a wide variety of food across the MorningStar Farms portfolio, they offer easy to love plant-based options how, where, and when consumers want them.
