In a press release published on September 19, 2019, U.S. grocery store operator Ahold Delhaize USA announced that it will begin restricting a set of chemicals of concern from products and packaging within its own branded products. The company has said its new policy will focus on implementing “sustainable chemistry” across three main areas:
- Restricting “the intentional use of chemicals of concern and place chemicals of concern, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), bisphenol A (BPAs), phthalates and more on a restricted substance list for a full range of private brand products.” It will also work to substitute the chemicals with more sustainable substitutes.
- Increasing “supplier testing requirements beginning in 2020 to confirm that priority products meet its high standards, beyond what is required by U.S. law, for potential chemicals of concern.”
- Partnering “with suppliers, agricultural producers and external organizations to research and act to minimize the occurrence of potential contaminants of concern in finished products and to advance greener chemistry options.” They will also expand “product ingredient information provided to consumers, beyond what is required by law, to support the selection of trusted brands and products.”
Ahold Delhaize USA’s sustainability representative Brittni Furrow said “consumers indicate they want more transparent products for their families, made with ingredients they can feel good about. We’re pleased to launch this new commitment, which will bring more sustainable options, free from unwanted ingredients, to neighborhood grocery stores.” Ahold Delhaize USA is the largest grocery retailer on the eastern coast of the U.S. and owns store brands such as Food Lion, Giant Food, Hannaford, and Stop & Shop.
Read More
Ahold Delhaize USA (September 19, 2019). “Ahold Delhaize USA Brands Announce Commitment to Sustainable Chemistry, Transparent Products and Packaging.”
Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families (September 19, 2019). “Grocer Ahold Delhaize to restrict toxic chemicals in food packaging and beauty products.”
Chemical Watch (September 19, 2019). “Major US retailer Ahold Delhaize announces chemicals policy.”
