In an effort to reduce carbon emissions, Morrisons has recently implemented a trial of raising the temperatures of some of its supermarket freezers by 3C. The UK grocery chain has assured customers that this measure will not compromise food safety.
According to Morrisons, the current industry standard of -18C for freezer temperatures was established nearly a century ago and has not been updated despite advancements in refrigeration technology. The company believes that increasing the temperature by 3C across the supply chain will have a significant positive impact on the environment, as well as saving energy and reducing costs.
The trial has been implemented in 10 stores across the country, taking into consideration weather conditions and supply routes. Morrisons plans to extend this temperature change to other locations in the future. The supermarket has also urged its suppliers to join the Move to -15C Coalition, emphasizing the potential for global savings and carbon emission reductions.
Ruth McDonald, Morrisons group corporate services director, stated, “Industry standards today are based on safety, science, or convenience. The standard temperature for the storage and transport of frozen food today looks like it is simply a convention from nearly 100 years ago.” She also noted that the company’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2035 would be aided by this initiative, and that the cost savings would allow for potential price reductions for customers.
Thomas Eskesen, chairman of the Move to -15C Coalition, expressed the importance of having support from all stages of the frozen food supply chain. He praised Morrisons for taking this step and believes that it will have a significant environmental impact.
This move by Morrisons has been met with enthusiasm by environmentalists and customers alike. The company’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and embrace sustainable practices are a positive example for other retailers to follow.
