The five new targets have been launched through the Protein PACT for the People, Animals and Climate of Tomorrow, which unites 12 US agricultural organisations.

Meat Institute CEO Julie Anna Potts said: “Our sustainability framework will drive momentum and generate technical support for meat packers and processors of all sizes to establish independently approved science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

In addition, the Meat Institute will collect data on metrics establishing baselines and verifying progress toward goals for animal care, food safety, labour and human rights, and health and wellness.