Mars launches multi-million dollar sustainable dairy plan 'Moo'ving Dairy Forward'

May 9, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Jun 10, 2024

Mars Incorporated has unveiled an ambitious sustainable dairy plan named 'Moo'ving Dairy Forward,' accompanied by a substantial $47 million investment over three years. This initiative is a pivotal component of Mars' broader commitment to combat climate change, with a $1 billion investment earmarked for climate initiatives over the same period. The company's new approach to dairy sourcing prioritises climate action, aiming to align with its 2030 goal of reducing emissions by 50%. The initiative marks a significant stride in Mars' journey towards achieving its net zero commitment. As part of the Moo'ving Dairy Forward sustainable dairy plan, Mars will collaborate with industry leaders to implement impactful interventions on farms. These interventions will focus on critical areas such as methane reduction, efficient manure management and sustainable feed production. One highlight of the initiative is the collaboration with dairy cooperative FrieslandCampina, one of the world's largest dairy producers. Together, they will establish the Mars-FrieslandCampina Sustainable Dairy Development Program, dedicated to implementing sustainable practices across Mars' dairy supply chain. Amanda Davies, chief R&D, procurement and sustainability officer at Mars Snacking, said: “Doing our part to keep our planet healthy is an absolute non-negotiable for us at Mars. But our vision for more sustainable dairy will only become a reality with the support and actions of farmers and our suppliers.” She continued: “Which is why, as part of our Moo’ving Dairy Forward Sustainable Dairy Plan, we’re putting millions of dollars directly back into the pockets of farmers through our contracts to help them make climate-smart changes to the way they farm. Together, I know that we can forge a path that helps address climate change head-on and contributes to reshaping our wider industry for a more sustainable future.” In addition to on-farm interventions, Mars is investing in long-term innovation by launching three pilot net zero dairy farms with the DMK Group in Germany. These farms will explore cutting-edge science and technology to pave the way for scalable and economically viable pathways to net zero dairy. Furthermore, Mars is exploring innovative solutions beyond traditional farming practices. The company has partnered with Fonterra and Sea Forest to trial Seafreed, a seaweed food supplement designed to reduce methane emissions from cows.

#mars

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Leah Smith

8 May 2026

New products

Ella’s Kitchen launches new children's snack range

Ella’s Kitchen is expanding beyond the baby food aisle with the launch of Ella’s Kitchen Kids, a new product line aimed at children aged 18 months and older.

The launch marks a significant strategic move for the brand as it looks to extend its presence beyond the weaning category and capture growing demand for healthier snack options for toddlers and young children.

Positioned as a “better-for-you” alternative to traditional children’s snacks, the new range combines bold flavours, playful branding and convenient formats with the nutritional standards parents associate with the Ella’s Kitchen brand.

The company said the range was developed in response to changing family eating habits and the lack of minimally processed snack options for older toddlers outside the baby aisle.

Initial products include Ella’s Kitchen Kids Crunchy Stix in Cheese + Onion, Tomato + Basil and Pesto varieties, alongside Ella’s Kitchen Kids Wild Crackers available in Tomato + Oregano, Pea + Basil and Carrot + Rosemary flavours.

Designed for lunchboxes, picnics and snacking occasions, the products are formulated with reduced salt levels and classified as non-HFSS options. According to the company, the Crunchy Stix contain less than 0.04g of salt per pack, while the Crackers contain less than 0.05g per serving.

Emma Wood, Senior Brand Manager at Ella’s Kitchen, said: “Ella’s Kitchen Kids is about recognising that the journey doesn’t stop at baby food. As little ones grow, their tastes, independence and routines all change – but parents still want options they can feel good about.”

The launch also signals Ella’s Kitchen’s wider ambitions within the children’s snacking market, with additional products and categories expected later this year.

Wood added that the company aims to help “raise the standards of the kids’ food category” by balancing taste, convenience and nutrition.