Southeastern Grocers makes commitment to ensure health of pollinators

Southeastern Grocers, the parent company and home of Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, announced a commitment to protect the health of the world’s essential pollinator populations and do its part to ensure food security for future generations.

The company’s investment in the health of pollinators includes working with and supporting supplier partners that avoid the use of particularly detrimental pesticides like neonicotinoids, glyphosate and organophosphates; sourcing fresh produce and flowers from suppliers with third-party verified integrated pest management practices; encouraging supplier partners to obtain pollinator-friendly certifications which facilitate consumer education, and working to increase the amount of USDA Organic produce offered in stores.

[Read more: Packaging innovations for sustainability]

“At Southeastern Grocers, we are committed to the development of lasting change, especially when it comes to safeguarding the world’s food supply for our future generations,” said Steve Williams, vice president of produce and floral for Southeastern Grocers. “As a grocer, feeding people is our first priority, and protecting the health of pollinators like honey bees is paramount to ensure we are able to help nourish our communities for years to come.”

Honey bees, butterflies, birds, bats and other pollinators are fundamental to the development of the earth’s flowering plants and crops, which makes them vital to the world’s food supply. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 35% of the world’s food crops rely on animal pollinators for reproduction. The use of pesticides in conventional farming methods is perpetuating the destruction of pollinator habitats, resulting in the loss of pollinators entirely. Southeastern Grocers’ Pollinator Health Policy commits to engaging with supplier partners to establish clear objectives resulting in healthier environments for pollinators.

With the goal to pursue purposeful change, the retailer said that it will continue to develop commitments to further support opportunities that advance pollinator-friendly practices in the southeast and beyond.

[Read more: Today's beauty brands are finding a more sustainable future through packaging innovations]

Together, with the help of its valued supplier partners, Southeastern Grocers will steadfastly work toward creating stronger communities, sustainable products and a more viable world for all, the company said.