What's happened
Food giants Unilever and Nestle face criticism as Unilever plans to water down its ethical pledges on plastic usage and pay, while Nestle's shareholders reject a proposal to reduce unhealthy foods. Nestle also faces a resolution to cut back on high levels of salt, sugar, and fats in its products.
Why it matters
The decisions by Unilever and Nestle have significant implications for corporate sustainability and public health. Shareholders and activists are pushing for more responsible practices, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in the corporate world.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports on Unilever's shift in strategy, highlighting the concerns raised by shareholders and the impact on the company's environmental and social aims. The Independent covers Nestle's shareholder vote, emphasizing the rejection of proposals to reduce unhealthy foods. The Guardian also discusses Nestle's resolution to cut back on salt, sugar, and fats, showcasing the concerns raised by investors and the company's response.
How we got here
Unilever and Nestle, two major food companies, are facing pressure to prioritize sustainability and public health in their products. Shareholders and activists are advocating for healthier food options and reduced environmental impact, leading to challenges for these companies to balance profitability with ethical considerations.
Common question
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Nestlé S.A. is a Swiss multinational food and drink processing conglomerate corporation headquartered in Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland. It is the largest food company in the world, measured by revenues and other metrics, since 2014.