Sobeys

Key Findings and Recommendations

• Corporate Commitment: Based on available public information, Sobeys has failed to commit to reducing toxic chemicals and plastics or supporting safer solutions. Sobeys 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 Sobeys 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. Sobeys should require ingredient disclosure, verify accuracy, and evaluate its chemical footprint.
• Ban the Bad: Sobeys does not have a restricted substance list (RSL) but has a plastics and packaging policy that it adopted to meet government goals to reduce plastic waste. Under this program, in 2023 Sobeys transitioned to PET packaging in several product categories, which eliminated 200 tons of polystyrene. However, PET is another plastic of high concern. Sobeys should join other retailers in restricting chemicals and plastics of high concern; set public, time-bound goals for reduction; and report on its progress in meeting those goals.
• Safer Solutions: In 2022, Sobeys provided funding for an innovator challenge to develop an alternative to Styrofoam trays used for meat, fish, and produce. Sobeys should build on that effort by investing additional financial resources toward development of safer alternatives to chemicals and plastics of high concern in products and packaging.