Mars embraces eco-conscious consumer trends with new animal-free chocolate innovation

Mars has partnered with Perfect Day, Inc, to launch the company's first ever earth-friendly and animal-free chocolate innovation in the USA. The name CO2COA pays homage to its Rainforest Alliance-Certified cocoa and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) in product sourcing.

"The creation of CO2COA is an inventive example of how we partner with technology innovators, like Perfect Day, to bring great new offerings to our consumers," said Chris Rowe, Global Vice President of Research & Development, Mars Wrigley. "We're excited to collaborate with Perfect Day and continuing to explore the potential of alternative proteins to help create a more delicious and sustainable future."

Perfect Day has created the world's first nature-identical dairy protein, without any animal inputs. A recent life-cycle assessment found that its precision fermentation process uses up to 99% less water and produces up to 97% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, compared to traditional production methods. By partnering with leaders in the food system, like Mars, which is innovating to use less of earth's resources, Perfect Day is broadening that impact for a kinder, greener tomorrow.

"Today, companies big and small need to deliver on the needs of their consumers, who won't compromise on taste or the future of our planet," added Ryan Pandya, Perfect Day cofounder and CEO. "We're thrilled to help a world-class company like Mars do just that as we champion a path towards a more resilient food system for all."  

"CO2COA is another example of how Mars continues to think and act differently to help create the world we want tomorrow," commented Alastair Child, Chief Sustainability Officer, Mars Wrigley. "From certified cocoa and a reduction in CO2 emissions to animal-free dairy, CO2COA was thoughtfully designed as we work to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across Mars' full value chain by 2050."

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