Ahold Delhaize

Key Findings and Recommendations

• Corporate Commitment: Based on available public information, Ahold Delhaize has failed to commit to reducing toxic chemicals and plastics or supporting safer solutions. Ahold Delhaize should publicly commit to develop and implement a corporate safer chemicals policy and actively explore best practices with peer organizations and outside experts.
• Transparency: There is no indication Ahold Delhaize requires suppliers to disclose chemical ingredients or plastics to the retailer or consumers, nor that it requires testing to ensure products are free of hazardous chemicals or plastics beyond regulatory compliance. Ahold Delhaize should require ingredient disclosure, verify accuracy, and evaluate its chemical footprint.
• Ban the Bad: In 2019, Ahold Delhaize announced the adoption of a restricted substances list (RSL) including the intentional use of PFAS, BPA, phthalates, “and more” for private-brand products and food packaging for these products. The full RSL has not been made public and the company has not publicly disclosed any progress in implementing it. Ahold Delhaize should join other retailers in setting public, time-bound goals for reducing and eliminating chemicals and plastics of high concern.
• Safer Solutions: There is no indication that Ahold Delhaize has supported the development or sale of safer products. Ahold Delhaize should work to ensure substitutes for chemicals and plastics of high concern are safer for the health of consumers, communities, workers, and the environment.