Sponsored by Lamb Weston
Safeguarding the planet and its well-being has become increasingly important. So, it's no surprise that consumers are more curious about their favorite restaurants' sustainability practices.1 Guests want their dining experiences to match up with their values, from ethically sourced ingredients to eco-friendly packaging.
Why sustainability matters to you
90% of consumers are likely to choose a restaurant based on its commitment to sustainability1. Many are even willing to pay 10% more for a sustainable meal2, reinforcing the need for restaurant owners and operators to educate their guests about their steps toward prioritizing sustainable practices and protecting the environment.
Unfortunately, just claiming your operation is sustainable is not enough. Guests want to be assured you're doing what's necessary to permanently reduce any practices that negatively impact the planet. About 70% of consumers believe it is essential for a restaurant to publicize its corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices.1 Operators need to be explicit and transparent about those initiatives within a wide-ranging communication effort. By doing so, they can showcase their commitment and entice environmentally conscious consumers to support their establishments.
It can be challenging to be eco-friendly. Cost concerns and logistics can get in the way. But when you partner with a supplier like Lamb Weston, their sustainability efforts become a part of your story, improving your business's reputation among your customers.
How Lamb Weston can be your partner in sustainability
Lamb Weston is dedicated to major improvements within the food supply chain. For over twenty years, they've led the way with sustainable farming practices such as regenerative agriculture, cutting down on waste, and saving water.
The regenerative agriculture approach seeks to connect all aspects of agriculture through a multi-level web of sustainable practices including soil improvement, the reduction of waste and water usage resulting in increased productivity and higher quality food. All while helping to fight climate change. Starting on Lamb Weston's 100 Circles farm, vegetable crops are in rotation with potatoes to improve soil health. Innovative technology like center pivot drip nozzles, in-ground sensors, and satellite infrared imagery, monitor crop health and reduce water usage. Vegetable crops are processed using 100% reclaimed water from the Columbia River with hydroelectric power to reduce pollution and greenhouse gasses. Vegetable by-products from the processing facility are used to feed their dairy cattle. Fertilizer from the dairy is used to return nutrients back into the cropland. By diversifying your menu with Lamb Weston products, you're supporting the diversity of their crops. Better for the soil, better for your fries, and better for the environment.
Water conservation also plays a vital role in Lamb Weston's commitment to sustainability. By accurately tracking monthly water usage, entering the accurate water discharge every month, and developing site and business function-specific strategies to improve water use in operations, Lamb Weston is dedicated to improving water use and progressing towards public water reduction.
Making strides toward a more sustainable world requires commitment, transparency, and proactive action. With Lamb Weston as your potato partner, you can count on all three. For more information on Lamb Weston's commitment to a more sustainable future, visit https://www.lambweston.com/about/sustainability.html
- Technomic Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability Study, 2022
- State of Business Dining Report, 2023
