Global Food Pioneer Attains Sustainability Goals

SunOpta, a global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based and fruit-based food and beverages, today announced it has received Green Business Certification in California and achieved zero waste to landfill at its Modesto manufacturing facility.

“As a sustainable, plant-based food and beverage company, sustainability is at the root of everything we do at SunOpta,” said Levi Pomerantz, continuous improvement manager, SunOpta. “We’re proud to achieve both Green Business Certification and zero waste to landfill in Modesto, and we will continue to embrace opportunities that lie ahead as we work to sustainably fuel the future of food.”

The California Green Business Network- Stanislaus, a program of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce signifies SunOpta is in compliance with all environmental regulations and meets program standards for saving water, conserving energy, preventing pollution and minimizing waste.

The California Green Business Network leads the state and nation in working with small to medium sized businesses to create a vibrant green economy. Led by a coalition of cities and counties, it contributes by helping to make California communities healthier and more livable while also conserving resources and saving money.

SunOpta achieved zero waste to landfill at its Modesto facility by reusing or recycling materials such as batteries, metals, oils, pallets, bulk bags and barrels.

For example, SunOpta recycled 2,589 tons of waste, 13 tons of cardboard, and additionally reused more than 3,718 pallets, which saved many trees and thousands of dollars. Anything that cannot be reused, recycled or upcycled is turned into energy to power local utilities in the community.

Zero waste is just one of SunOpta’s sustainability goals. Last year, SunOpta released its 2021 ESG report, outlining its goals and progress across four key areas: products, planet, people and governance.

The SunOpta sustainability strategy includes aspirational goals related to carbon emission savings, recyclable packaging, upcycling food waste, and water conservation.

By 2025, SunOpta has ambitious goals to double its plant-based business. SunOpta is the first publicly traded producer of oatmilk, the second most popular plant-based beverage on the market. For decades, SunOpta has collaborated with some of the most planet-friendly brands, including the largest coffee shop chain in the world.

SunOpta has recently made a $26 million investment in oat extraction at its Modesto facility to enable the production of more oat-based products and ingredients, underscoring the importance of the company’s presence in Modesto.

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is a Minnesota-based, global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based and fruit-based food and beverages. With its deep roots and dynamic growth, SunOpta today leads innovation to positively impact people and the planet. Specifically, SunOpta manufactures organic, non-GMO, plant-based and specialty products sold through retail and foodservice channels. SunOpta operates as a co-manufacturer for leading brands and a manufacturer for private label and ingredients. SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream™, West Life™ and Sunrise Growers™. For more information, visit www.sunopta.com and LinkedIn.