NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF. — Chipotle Mexican Grill launched Real Foodprint, a sustainability impact tracker for digital orders.
Available on the Chipotle mobile app and website, the tool gives customers an inside look at the brand’s sourcing efforts. It compares the environmental impact of Chipotle’s 53 ingredients to an industry average using five key metrics, including reduced carbon emissions (measured in grams), gallons of water saved, antibiotics avoided (measured in mg) and improved soil health and organic land supported (measured in square feet).
Metrics are provided by HowGood, an independent research company that aggregates information from Chipotle’s suppliers. The information is measured against an industry average, which was established using data from sources like the US Department of Agriculture, the World Health Organization and the Food and Drug Administration.
“For 25 years, Chipotle has been dedicated to responsibly sourcing every single one of our ingredients and creating industry leading practices around animal welfare and sustainability,” said Chris Brandt, chief marketing officer. “Now, with Real Foodprint, our guests can see how this commitment is better for the planet in each individual order.”
Chipotle will use the assessments to adjust its supply chain and minimize the impact of each ingredient over time, he added. It is the first restaurant to partner with HowGood.
“Having worked with top global brands across the industry, we are particularly excited about Chipotle's approach to providing a truly comprehensive view of ingredient impact,” said Alexander Gillett, chief executive officer of HowGood. “We're optimistic that their trailblazing could set a new tone for radical transparency, and excited to have partnered with them to provide the level of granular, exhaustive data they are committed to using.”
The announcement follows the launch of the World Resources Institute’s “Cool Food Meals” badge in mid-October. The certification program helps consumers choose climate-friendly menu options by identifying dishes with a low carbon footprint. Panera Bread was the first company to receive Cool Food Meals certification across its entire digital menu, with the badge appearing on its website and mobile app beginning Oct. 14.