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Indian protein buyers narrow Asia gap, but climate and animal welfare disclosures lag: APB100 Report
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Friday, 06 March, 2026, 12 : 00 PM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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India’s largest listed food companies are accelerating efforts to strengthen protein-related supply chain governance, broadly aligning with the Asian average, though significant gaps remain in climate action and animal welfare, according to The Asian Protein Buyers 100 (APB100): An Assessment of Responsible and Sustainable Sourcing released by Asia Research & Engagement (ARE).
The investor-backed benchmark evaluates how 100 of Asia’s largest listed protein-buying companies manage environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks across meat, dairy, poultry and seafood supply chains. India emerged as one of the faster-improving markets in the 2025 assessment. The average score of Indian companies more than doubled from around 7 per cent in 2023 to 16 per cent in 2025.
The report assessed 13 listed Indian firms, including Nestlé India, Tata Consumer Products, Hindustan Unilever, Jubilant FoodWorks, Devyani International and Parag Milk Foods, among others. Eleven of the 13 companies recorded year-on-year improvements, reflecting growing attention to responsible sourcing.
India’s strongest performance was observed in traceability, sourcing policies and labour frameworks, indicating that foundational supply chain governance structures are being established. However, the report notes that disclosures remain largely process-driven, with limited evidence of measurable outcomes, full supply chain coverage or remediation mechanisms.
Climate-related performance remains a key concern. More than half of the assessed Indian companies have yet to disclose Scope 3 emissions exposure, set science-based targets or outline transition strategies. Commitments to absolute emissions reduction and alignment with recognised disclosure frameworks are limited.
Animal welfare disclosures are similarly underdeveloped. Most companies lack species-specific policies, measurable targets or clear timelines. Only a minority reference higher-welfare sourcing practices such as cage-free or tether-free systems.
ARE Director, Protein Transition (India), Rituj Sahu, said India stands at a critical juncture as rising incomes and urbanisation drive demand for animal protein. He noted that while early governance improvements are encouraging, companies must now translate intent into measurable climate action, responsible antibiotic use and stronger animal welfare standards.
Industry representatives added that diversifying protein sources, including scaling plant-based alternatives, will be central to strengthening India’s long-term food system resilience.
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