The cold truth about sustainability is that there’s no finish line. Without a steady supply of ingredients and energy to produce, package and distribute refrigerated and frozen foods, it would be difficult for the cold chain to continue.

The question of whether investing upfront in sustainable initiatives is worth the cost could be viewed as a moot point in 2021. Those that don’t spend money on renewable resources and materials are missing an opportunity to boost their bottom line. Recent studies have shown an increasing number of shoppers are actively seeking to buy from brands that incorporate eco-friendly practices into their business model, and it’s not just food, but across the entire spectrum of consumer goods.

A cold foods company doesn’t require global reach to have an impact on the environment. Every sustainable decision large and small likely adds to the earth’s health and the well-being of those who purchase products.

As we near the halfway point of 2021, here’s a snapshot of four different cold foods processors—from a global dairy giant to smaller snack, dessert, and poultry brands—and, in their own words, they detail their efforts to keep the planet in a state where it can continue to provide the resources to create cold foods.

Bel Brands USA

Stateside branch of Paris-based global dairy processor Bel Group, and parent company to brands like Laughing Cow, Babybel, Boursin and many others.

COCINA 54

Austin, Texas, based frozen empanada maker, with distribution in more than 1,000 stores, plus direct-to-consumer shipping through the company's website.

Coolhaus

Los Angeles-based premium ice cream, frozen novelty and dairy-free dessert company with products available in 6,000 retail outlets nationwide.

Diestel Family Ranch

Fourth-generation, family-owned turkey processor based in Sonora, California, with dozens of refrigerated and frozen products available in stores and for foodservice.