Fresh Express focused on sustainability amid global challenges

Fresh Express, a brand leader in value-added fresh salads, is not letting global supply chain woes stand in the way of achieving its North American sustainability goals. According to Vice President Fabian Pereria, who directs sustainability efforts, the company has recently adopted the use of reduced gauge corrugate to circumvent shortages and also contribute to increased sustainability.

“At Fresh Express, we are always seeking new and inventive ways to address our ongoing sustainability priorities,” said Pereria. “And given the amount of corrugate required for our operations over time, even moderate reductions can have significant impact.”

Pereria said Fresh Express strives across all operations to make a positive environmental impact in how it grows, processes, packages and ships each product.     

For example, Fresh Express farmers use soil health best practices of no-till, crop rotation, drought resilient seeds, yield improvement and soil and water retention along with others to conserve and build the soil ecosystem. The company also works closely with energy providers to source more from renewal sources, including the use of solar in fields to power machinery and multiple operations.  At the plant level, one-third — and counting — of fluorescent bulbs have already been replaced with energy-friendly LED.

In transportation, Fresh Express requires contracted carrier fleets to utilize updated and fuel-efficient equipment and a majority also participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay program to reduce carbon emissions.

And through a robust companywide commitment of zero waste, Fresh Express works upstream with vendors and across all five regional manufacturing centers to reduce the amount of waste materials coming into and being generated by facilities, invests in reusable containers and executes a proactive recycling program — all designed to divert materials away from landfills and incineration.  

“We are proud of our focus on the environment and the large and small changes we make every day 365,” Pereira said.  “Every policy, procedure and physical change we make build upon one another to achieve meaningful and measurable long-term differences.”