Woolworths admits gaps in deforestation-free beef pledge
Woolworths acknowledged gaps in its deforestation-free beef pledge.
Environmental groups challenged Woolworths at its annual meeting on Thursday. The groups questioned the company's beef sources and whether its no-deforestation policy covers the full supply.
Chair Scott Perkins said the company used aerial surveillance. Woolworths found no deforestation in direct supply from farmers.
He said the vast majority of beef is sourced directly. Another shareholder pointed out that not all of Woolworths' own brand beef is deforestation-free.
This highlighted a gap in some indirect sources. Perkins said he would take the concern to the commercial team.
Cattle Australia defended beef producers against what it called misleading claims from activist groups. Woolworths also faced questions about endangered Maugean skate populations in Tasmania's Macquarie Harbour.
It sources salmon from in-water farms there.
- vast majority
- Direct beef supply
- ACF, Greenpeace
- Groups at meeting
- Scott Perkins
- Chair
Why it mattersConsumers who buy Woolworths beef may believe it is deforestation-free. But indirect sources are not covered by that commitment.
AustraliaAustralia's largest supermarket chain has significant influence on domestic cattle producers and land-use practices, making its supply chain policies material for Australian farmers and consumers concerned about environmental impact.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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