MISSISSIAUGA, ONTARIO – Walmart Canada says it is the first grocery retailer in Canada to offer an on-pack certified sustainable claim on a line of beef products. The retailer is sourcing a large enough quantity of beef from certified sustainable farms and ranches according to standards set by the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) that it has permission to include a sustainability certification label on each package of “Your Fresh Market” brand beef patties.

Walmart Canada sources 100% of its beef in Canada, and said the certification demonstrates the company’s commitment and contribution to supporting sustainable beef practices in the country across five principles — Natural Resources, People and Community, Animal Health and Welfare, Food, and Efficiency and Innovation, verified through third-party certification.

“Walmart is committed to being a regenerative company – one that works to restore, renew and replenish our planet. Offering this new line of beef patties with sustainability certification is part of our journey and a proud moment for our entire team,” said Horacio Barbeito, president and chief executive officer, Walmart Canada. “Our ongoing partnership with the CRSB helps drive the shared goal of advancing sustainability within the Canadian beef industry. Each of us can take pride in knowing that our collective actions support global sustainability commitments.”

Canadian beef producers manage and help preserve 35 million acres of native grasslands in Canada, the company said. Grazing cattle contributes to preserving critical habitat for wildlife and birds, including more than 60 species at risk. Walmart Canada’s ongoing partnership with the CRSB is another important part of the company's commitment to sustainability in its sourcing decisions both globally and domestically.

“Walmart Canada has been a strong partner on our sustainability journey. We’re delighted that they are now showcasing the CRSB Certified label in Walmart stores across the country,” said Anne Wasko, chair of the CRSB and rancher from Eastend, Saskatchewan. The label will help Canadians understand the sustainable practices that are used and how their food is raised, so that they can better understand how that contributes to a sustainable food system.

“We want all Canadians to feel confident that in choosing CRSB-certified products, they are making the right choices for themselves and their families, and for our planet, while also supporting farmers and ranchers across Canada,” she said.