Kaufland sets new standards in beef quality
Heilbronn, October 22, 2018 – Kaufland customers can now find minced beef and beef burgers with the “Ohne GenTechnik” seal in the meat aisle. “Beef with this certification has so far been the exception in the food retail sector. We want to set a new standard here," says Ralph Dausch, Management of Fleischwaren Kaufland. Genetically modified components may not be used in the animals' fodder plants or in the ingredients. The animal feed and the Kaufland meat factory have been tested and certified for this purpose by the Association of Foodstuffs without Genetic Engineering eV.
A prerequisite for the “Ohne GenTechnik” label for beef is, among other things, that it has been fed with non-GMO forage plants for three quarters of its life, but at least 12 months. Due to this long feeding period, GMO-free beef has so far hardly been available across the board.
“However, we set the course early on to be able to offer GMO-free beef today. With the inclusion of minced meat and burgers in the permanent range, we are already offering the option of deliberately avoiding genetic engineering when it comes to beef,” says Ralph Dausch. "We are thus meeting the societal desire for naturally produced food."
Kaufland already offers around 700 items with the "Ohne GenTechnik" seal in its entire range. The company's goal is to further expand the GMO-free product portfolio as quickly as possible.
“Ohne GenTechnik” seal
No genetically modified organisms or parts thereof are used for foodstuffs with the legal "Ohne GenTechnik" seal, nor are any vitamins, flavors, enzymes or other food additives produced with the help of genetically modified microorganisms. The feeding is done without genetically modified plants, with strict deadlines to be respected.
Kaufland
Kaufland operates over 660 branches nationwide and employs around 75.000 people. With an average of 30.000 items, the company offers a wide range of groceries, with a focus on the fresh produce departments of fruit and vegetables, dairy products, meat, sausage, cheese and fish. The company is part of the Schwarz Group, which is one of the leading food retail companies in Germany. Kaufland is based in Neckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg.
An important part of corporate policy is to take responsibility for people and the environment. Kaufland pays particular attention to the sustainable design of the product range. The company is committed to responsible production conditions, more appropriate housing conditions and the preservation of natural habitats. Customers have a wide range of environmentally friendly and fairly traded products, and Kaufland is also strong on organic and regional agriculture.
