With no global common standard on animal welfare available, and standards varying across species and regions, Knorr has been working with Compassion in World Farming for two years to develop global criteria for good animal welfare and a framework to start transforming its supply chain. The ambition is to reach what Compassion defines as ‘Level 3’/ higher animal welfare, covering detailed requirements such as adequate space, light, climate and enrichment for all animals.

The comprehensive set of criteria behind Knorr’s plan caters to the specific welfare needs of different species such as chickens, cows and pigs. Knorr has worked with independent external experts to assess current practices and with the help of Compassion has started engaging supplier partners on improvements needed to bring consistent and positive change across its supply chain. This detailed animal welfare plan extends the great work the brand has already achieved in sustainably sourcing its vegetable, herb and spice ingredients as consumers become increasingly discerning about the origin and quality of the ingredients in their food.

The awards ceremony was part of the 2015 Milan Expo and was hosted by chef, writer and broadcaster Allegra McEvedy MBE.

David Pendlington, Knorr Procurement Director, said: “We are delighted that our commitment to embark on a journey to advance animal welfare at a global scale is being honoured with this Special Recognition Award. It has been a complex process to create a plan this ambitious and we are still at the start of this challenging journey. We are now at a crucial stage where we appeal to the industry for partners to join us and build momentum to achieve the transformational change we all want to see in this industry.”

Dr Tracey Jones, Director of Food Business at Compassion in World Farming, said: “The Special Recognition Award allows Compassion to publicly acknowledge the work of companies beyond our traditional Good Farm Animal Welfare Awards. It recognises outstanding innovation, leadership, commitment or achievement with regard to farm animal welfare through work in which Compassion has been integrally involved. The Knorr team has worked tirelessly over the past two years to investigate supply chain solutions and develop global welfare criteria for chicken, beef and pork. Knorr should be justly proud to be the first recipient of this special award. It is a pleasure working with such a committed team and I wholeheartedly congratulate all involved.”

As part of the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan, Knorr is already committed to sourcing 100 per cent of its agricultural ingredients from sustainable sources by 2020, because the brand believes this benefits the quality and taste of its products, the livelihoods of farmers and the future of the planet. Today, 96 per cent of the top 13 vegetables and herbs used in its soups, sauces and seasonings are grown sustainably and this commitment to animal welfare seeks to bring a similar change to its meat ingredients. With products sold in more than 87 countries, Knorr is Unilever’s biggest brand and one of the world’s largest food brands.