The report identifies three areas where the company can make the most impact. Based on the UN’s SDGs, they encompass nutrition, people and sustainability. The company has also made the commitment to transmute 50% of its electricity usage in the US to renewable sources by 2025.
“I’m proud of the great progress we’ve made growing our social and sustainability efforts,” said Phoenix Dugger, CSR manager at Ardent Mills.
“This newly developed programme reflects our holistic commitment to bring positive change to the ingredient industry, while meeting the needs of our customers, consumers, communities and environment in everything we do.”
Nutrition
Ardent Mills has partnered with several food banks across the US, Canada and Puerto Rico to improve access to nutritious grain-based solutions to local communities, including Partners in Food Solutions (PFS), The Epworth Foundation and Food Bank of the Rockies.
Since 2015, Ardent Mills has hosted a charity golf tournament and silent auction for the Food Bank of the Rockies. Although the tournament was cancelled this year due to COVID-19, financial assistance has been even more critical and the company donated $250,000, which provided one million meals.
Ardent Mills has also created an alliance with the American Heart Association to raise awareness of heart health.
People
By leveraging its extensive network, Ardent Mills provides development and engagement opportunities for the next generation. Highlights include:
- Supporting the next generation with Agriculture Future of America
- Promoting leadership with Future Farmers of America
- Building healthy lifestyles with Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver
- Learning life skills with National Agriculture in the Classroom
Ardent Mills’ operations are supported by more than 35 flour mills and bakery-mix facilities, along with a specialty bakery and Mobile Innovation Center, located in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.
The Denver, Colorado-headquartered company employs more than 100 certified millers, which supports thousands of local jobs and contribute billions of dollars to local economies.
Sustainability
The company has rallied to support the long-term viability of the food system and supply chain by reducing inefficiency, supporting customer goals, improving sustainability and positively impacting the communities in which it operates.
Earlier this year, it announced its first public renewable energy goal to ensure 50% of its US electricity usage will be powered by renewable sources within five years.
“As a global leader in the food ingredient industry, we undoubtedly have an important role to play in the food system and supply chain,” said Dan Dye, CEO of Ardent Mills.
“We strive to use our global network for good, and we are deeply committed to nourish what’s next by driving positive change in nutrition and sustainability, and supporting those that make our food system possible.”