Sustainable performance of the largest global food companies

Purpose This work assesses and compares the level of engagement of the six largest global food companies regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN) for 2030. Design/methodology/approach From the contents of the Global Reporting Initiative sustainability reports of the companies Nestlé, Archer Daniels Midland, Kraft Heinz, Bunge, JBS and General Mills, this study measured these companies’ commitment to and coverage of SDGs in the economic, environmental and social dimensions. Findings Global food companies show relatively high commitment to the UN SDGs for 2030, but they still have opportunities for improvement regarding their coverage. The environmental dimension demonstrates the best overall indicator, whereas the social one demonstrates great opportunities for evolution. Practical implications Analyses are useful for managers to evaluate the companies’ strategic positioning relative to main competitors regarding the quality and breadth of the initiative presented in the sustainability reports. Originality/value This is an unprecedented study in the food sector measuring and comparing the indexes of coverage and commitment of the largest food companies regarding SDGs.