United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) is a leading distributor in the natural and organic food industry, headquartered in the United States. Founded in 1976, UNFI has grown significantly, establishing a strong presence across North America, with operations spanning the US and Canada. The company specialises in providing a diverse range of products, including organic groceries, health and wellness items, and specialty foods, setting itself apart with a commitment to sustainability and quality. UNFI's extensive network and innovative supply chain solutions have positioned it as a key player in the market, serving thousands of retailers and food service operators. With notable achievements such as strategic acquisitions and a focus on expanding its product offerings, UNFI continues to lead the way in promoting healthier food choices and supporting the growth of the natural foods sector.
How does Unfi's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Mean score of companies in the Food Product Manufacturing industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Unfi's score of 56 is higher than 76% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
In 2023, United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) reported significant carbon emissions from its operations in the US, with Scope 1 emissions totalling approximately 340,269,100 kg CO2e and Scope 2 emissions amounting to about 137,320,520 kg CO2e (market-based). Globally, UNFI's emissions included approximately 344,073,520 kg CO2e for Scope 1, 137,440,380 kg CO2e for Scope 2 (market-based), and a substantial 23,818,005,000 kg CO2e for Scope 3 emissions. UNFI has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for a 50% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by the end of FY2030, using a FY2020 baseline. Additionally, the company targets a 25% reduction in absolute Scope 3 emissions from purchased goods and services within the same timeframe. UNFI also commits to reducing Scope 1 and 3 heavy freight well-to-wheel (WTW) GHG emissions by 38% per tonne-kilometre by FY2030. Furthermore, UNFI has pledged to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, with specific initiatives such as eliminating waste to landfill in distribution centre operations by 2030. The company is on track to meet its targets, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability and climate action.
Access structured emissions data, company-specific emission factors, and source documents
| 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 38,648,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 113,637,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
| Scope 3 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 00,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 | 00,000,000,000 |
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
Unfi has established climate goals through participation in recognized frameworks and target-setting initiatives. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.

Common questions about Unfi's sustainability data and climate commitments