Kentucky Fried Chicken, commonly known as KFC, is a global leader in the fast-food industry, renowned for its signature fried chicken. Headquartered in the United States, KFC operates extensively across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Founded in 1930 by Colonel Harland Sanders, the brand has achieved significant milestones, including the introduction of its iconic Original Recipe chicken, which features a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices.
KFC's core offerings include fried chicken, sandwiches, and sides, all distinguished by their unique flavours and quality. The brand's commitment to using fresh ingredients and innovative cooking techniques has solidified its market position as a favourite among chicken lovers worldwide. With thousands of outlets globally, KFC continues to be a prominent player in the fast-food sector, consistently adapting to consumer preferences while maintaining its classic appeal.
+25 vs industry average
Kfc’s score of 42 is higher than 64% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Food Product Manufacturing is among the most carbon-intensive industries
Industry performance
The Food Product Manufacturing industry has increased its overall emissions by 9% since 2019
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2027
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Kfc's reported carbon emissions
KFC, headquartered in the US, reported a total of approximately 33.96 billion kg CO2e for its Scope 3 emissions in 2024, alongside Scope 1 emissions of approximately 41.19 million kg CO2e and Scope 2 emissions (market-based) of approximately 99.52 million kg CO2e. In 2023, KFC's total emissions, encompassing Scope 1, 2, and 3, amounted to approximately 31.57 billion kg CO2e. Specifically, Scope 1 emissions were about 38.92 million kg CO2e, Scope 2 (market-based) were approximately 95.24 million kg CO2e, and Scope 3 emissions were approximately 31.44 billion kg CO2e. KFC's parent company, Yum! Brands, Inc., has set several climate commitments. These include a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 46% by 2030, using a 2019 base year. Additionally, Yum! Brands aims to reduce Scope 3 GHG emissions from franchises by 46% per restaurant and from purchased goods and services (beef, poultry, dairy, and packaging) by 46% per metric ton by 2030, also compared to 2019 levels. KFC is also working towards a target to reduce food loss and waste by 50% by 2030. Furthermore, there is a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 63% by 2035 from a 2020 base year. Yum! Brands also has a long-term net-zero commitment by 2050.
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Kfc’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
4 goals2030
50% reduction in scope 3 total
Reduce food loss waste 50% by 2030 in accordance with U.S. Food Loss and Waste 2030 Champions.
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
No scope 3 category breakdown has been disclosed yet.
Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Common questions about Kfc’s sustainability data and climate commitments
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