Ben & Jerry's Journey to a Palm Oil-Free Portfolio
For environmentally and socially conscious consumers, knowing the ingredients in their favorite products is more important than ever. The question, "Does Ben and Jerry's ice cream have palm oil in it?" stems from increasing awareness of palm oil production's impact on deforestation and habitats. The good news for Ben & Jerry's fans is that the company has a clear and public stance on this issue, leading to a significant change in its products.
The Shift from Inclusions to Exclusion
Prior to 2017, the answer to whether Ben & Jerry's contained palm oil was more complex. While the ice cream base mix itself had never contained palm oil, some of the added inclusions, such as chunks and swirls, were supplied by external companies that used the ingredient. This meant that depending on the flavor, a small amount of palm oil might have been present in the final product. Recognising the concerns surrounding palm oil sourcing, Ben & Jerry's made a commitment to eliminate it completely.
By 2017, the company successfully worked with its suppliers to remove palm oil from all chunks and swirls, ensuring that every flavor in its global portfolio is entirely free of the ingredient. This move aligns with the company's broader sustainability and social justice missions, which are a core part of its business model.
Why the Change Mattered
Palm oil production is often associated with significant environmental and social issues. The demand for cheap, versatile palm oil has led to widespread deforestation, particularly in Southeast Asia, which threatens the habitats of endangered species like orangutans and tigers. Additionally, human rights abuses and unfair labor practices have been documented in some parts of the industry. By transitioning away from palm oil, Ben & Jerry's addressed these concerns directly, strengthening its reputation as a socially and environmentally responsible brand.
Palm Oil in Ice Cream: A Wider Industry View
Many other ice cream brands, particularly those producing 'frozen desserts' rather than true ice cream, continue to use palm oil. The ingredient is prized for its low cost, long shelf life, and functional properties that give products a creamy, smooth texture and a slow melt. However, for consumers who want to avoid palm oil, understanding the difference between brands is crucial. Ben & Jerry's decision to go palm oil-free, while potentially more costly, reflects a commitment to prioritizing ethical sourcing over cheaper alternatives.
Ben & Jerry's vs. Other Brands: An Ingredient Comparison
| Feature | Ben & Jerry's | Some "Frozen Dessert" Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Palm Oil Content | None (since 2017) | Common ingredient |
| Sourcing Policy | Fairtrade, Living Income, traceable cocoa, no palm oil | Varies; often focuses on low-cost supply chains |
| Main Fat Source | Dairy cream, milk, coconut oil (in non-dairy) | Vegetable oil, often palm oil |
| Product Label | Clearly labeled as 'Ice Cream' or 'Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert' | Often labeled as 'Frozen Dessert' to comply with regulations regarding fat content |
| Sustainability Focus | Explicit focus on climate justice, regenerative agriculture | Varies; less emphasis on ethical sourcing for many cheaper brands |
Ben & Jerry's Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing Initiatives
Beyond just the exclusion of palm oil, Ben & Jerry's has built a comprehensive framework for ethical sourcing. Their "Linked Prosperity" model is designed to ensure everyone involved in making their products benefits from the company's success. Key initiatives include:
- Fairtrade Certification: The company has used Fairtrade Certified ingredients since 2005, ensuring small-scale farmers receive a fair price for their products and a Fairtrade Premium to invest in their communities.
- Living Income Accelerator: Ben & Jerry's goes beyond the standard Fairtrade pricing to pay an additional amount to close the living income gap for cocoa farmers in their supply chain.
- Tony's Chocolonely Open Chain Partnership: In 2024, Ben & Jerry's announced a partnership with Tony's Chocolonely to transition to a more traceable cocoa supply chain, with the mission of ending modern slavery and illegal child labor in the chocolate industry.
- Caring Dairy Program: This program supports farmers in improving their environmental and animal welfare practices, focusing on regenerative agriculture and reducing methane emissions.
Conclusion: A Conscious Choice
For consumers asking, "Does Ben and Jerry's ice cream have palm oil in it?", the answer is a resounding no. Since 2017, the company has diligently worked to ensure its entire product line is free of this controversial ingredient, removing it from all inclusions and swirls. This decision is part of a much larger and long-standing corporate commitment to social and environmental responsibility. By choosing Ben & Jerry's, customers are supporting a brand that prioritizes ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and fair practices throughout its supply chain. For those seeking a delicious treat with a clean conscience, Ben & Jerry's is a reliable option.
Visit Ben & Jerry's website to learn more about their values and social mission.
