In effort to protect America's pollinators, Kroger will stop sourcing plants treated with neonicotinoids by 2020. The company released an update to its pollinator policy encouraging suppliers to move away from pesticides and adopt alternative pest management.
“We recognize the global honeybee population is vulnerable, with research indicating that causes may include the use of certain pesticides, including neonicotinoids. Due to the potential risk to the honeybee population, we support and encourage efforts to protect these pollinator species,” Kroger said in its updated policy.
As part of the policy, Kroger said it is committed to eliminating the sourcing of live outdoor plants that have been treated with pesticides containing neonicotinoids in its stores and garden centers by 2020. This commitment is inclusive of outdoor plants known to be pollinated by honeybees or known to attract honeybees.
Today, the majority of live plant sales in Kroger’s garden center and outdoor floral selection are not treated with neonicotinoids during the growing process. “Our suppliers are actively seeking alternative options for the remaining products, and we are committed to working with them to ensure proper alternatives have been identified by 2020. We will also track, measure and report on our progress against this commitment,” Kroger told feedstuffs.com.
