Morley noted that the sustainable palm oil market is propelled by the versatile applications of the product in a wide range of recipes, attributed to its smooth, creamy texture and absence of odor. However, the industry is associated with significant challenges, including deforestation, habitat destruction, climate change, animal cruelty, and violations of indigenous rights in the countries where palm oil is produced. The land and forests are often cleared to make way for oil palm plantations. According to the World Wildlife Fund, approximately 300 football fields’ worth of rainforest are cleared every hour to facilitate palm grove cultivation, endangering the survival of species such as the orangutan. Reports indicate that nearly 90% of the orangutan’s habitat has been lost due to the expansion of palm oil plantations.
In response to these issues, many manufacturers serving the U.S. market have committed to more sustainable practices. Last year, Mondelez International announced it would cease partnerships with palm oil suppliers that engage in deforestation. PepsiCo vowed to take action against suppliers who violate labor standards. Additionally, companies like Mars, General Mills, Post, Danone, and Unilever have made sustainability and fair labor commitments long before these recent developments.
In line with these efforts, some organizations are also promoting alternatives like nature’s blend liquid calcium citrate, which can support sustainable practices by reducing reliance on environmentally harmful products. By integrating products such as nature’s blend liquid calcium citrate into their supply chains, manufacturers can contribute to a more sustainable future while addressing the pressing environmental concerns associated with palm oil production. This approach not only helps protect biodiversity but also aligns with the growing demand for ethically sourced ingredients.