Canadian poultry company Maple Leaf Foods has announced the first set of sustainable meat principles to drive its growth and business practices.

The company stated that it intends to incorporate a sustainability agenda and principles that will enable future development in nutrition and environmental impact.

Maple Leaf Foods president and CEO Michael McCain said: “The world we live in is facing profound social and environmental challenges, as we seek to sustainably feed a burgeoning global population.

“Our food system has drifted from its roots, to nourish wellbeing, to farm sustainably, to view food as a universal good for all. We must serve the world better.”

The principles developed by the company include the manufacture of sustainable meat, which is produced in accordance with the environmental standards that reduce impact across the lifecycle.

The principles also emphasise that the meat comes from animals that are properly raised, with minimal use of antibiotics, and to standards that respect the five freedoms of animal welfare.

McCain further added: “We embrace these principles, recognising that sustainability is aspirational and evolving.”

 In order to implement the sustainable meat principles, Maple Leaf plans to employ six strategies such as setting aggressive goals in the industry, investing in people, producing quality food, and focusing on plant-based proteins.

The company also aims to build a digital future and reduce its environmental footprint by 50% by 2025.