Palm oil policy

Oil palm is an oil plant that gives the best crop per area under cultivation. Palm oil is used in many foodstuffs, for example margarines, baked goods, snacks and ice creams. The continuous expansion of palm oil production into new areas in the tropics is a threat to biodiversity and causes deforestation and significant greenhouse gas emissions. It may also involve human rights violations of the employees and indigenous people. However, palm oil is often a significant source of income for the region in which it is produced. This is why it is important to promote palm oil production that is sustainable from an environmental and economic point of view.

Kesko recommends the use of certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO) to manufacturers of Pirkka, Pirkka Parhaat and K-Menu products as well as Kespro's Menu products. 

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes sustainable production of palm oil. RSPO members include palm oil growers and processors, food manufacturers and large store chains. The organisation has thousands of members in all. Kesko is a member of the RSPO.

The palm oil policy was published on 11 August 2011 and last reviewed on 12 February 2025.

Progress of the objectives of the palm oil policy in 2024

100% of the palm oil in Pirkka, Pirkka Parhaat and K-Menu food products sold in 2024 was sustainably produced, of which 85% was Segregated, 7% Mass Balance and 8% RSPO Credits.

100% of the palm oil in Kespro Menu food products sold in 2024 was sustainably produced, of which 89% was Segregated, 9% Mass Balance, and 2% RSPO Credits purchased by suppliers.

Progress in 2020-2024: