Raisio Group focuses on responsibly produced healthy food. We take all important food-related factors into account: well-being, health, good taste and sustainable development.

Raisio’s Purpose, Values and Code of Conduct guide our day-to-day work and set a foundation for profitable and responsible operations. All of us at Raisio are committed to comply with these principles. Common rules help us do the right thing and do things right.

We are a forerunner in responsibility and sustainability, and will continue to show the way.

Why?

At Raisio, we work in a number of countries and in many different sectors. Our stakeholders, such as customers, consumers, shareholders and investors, require that we operate in a responsible way. The Raisio Code of Conduct is our common way to operate. In short, we treat each other with respect and we want to do profitable and responsible business.

Internal guidelines and policies complement the Raisio Code of Conduct.

For Whom?

Raisio’s Board of Directors has approved the Raisio Code of Conduct that applies to all Raisio Group’s operations, employees, management as well as the members of the Board and Supervisory Board. We are committed to comply with the Raisio Code of Conduct in our work and when representing the company.

Compliance with laws and regulations

We comply with local and international laws and regulations, generally accepted practices and Raisio’s own guidelines. We are also committed to the ten principles of the UN Global Compact initiative regarding human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.

We respect the UN declaration of human rights and the fundamental rights at work as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

These rights cover freedom of association, the right to organise or not to organise, the right to collective bargaining, the prohibition of forced labour and child labour, and the employees’ right to equal treatment and opportunities.

Wellbeing at work and competence

We take care of employee wellbeing by focusing on good leadership and supervisory work, on good interaction and internal communications, and by promoting a trusting work environment. With a number of services and projects, Raisio encourages and supports the physical and mental wellbeing of its employees. We also promote employee wellbeing through problem prevention and with early support practices.

At Raisio, competence development covers the entire lifecycle of an employment. Effective planning and implementation of the induction programme ensures that our employees have sufficient resources to succeed in their work. Internal and external training as well as on-the-job learning enable continuous learning and professional development.

The employee survey results and feedback help us find better practices. In addition, performance appraisals are used to identify employee development needs and to ensure that operations are in line with the Group’s objectives.

Equality

Employees are selected to their roles on the basis of their skills and experience, as defined in Raisio’s HR strategy. Discrimination on the grounds of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or political beliefs, nationality, marital status, disability or age is prohibited. Equality between employees is important for us.

Occupational safety

We all have a right to a safe work environment. With good management of occupational safety, we can ensure employees’ physical and mental wellbeing as well as their security. Employees receive regular training in occupational health and safety matters, also through practical training.

Behaviour that is mentally or physically coercive, threatening, offensive or abusive is not permitted at Raisio.

Employee inventions and patents

At Raisio, we encourage innovativeness and value the creation of intellectual capital. We reward for good ideas and employee inventions. We protect and respect our own and other companies’ intellectual capital.

Conflicts of interest and anti-corruption

We always act with honesty and integrity and in Raisio’s best interests. We do not accept bribery, corruption, money laundering or any other dishonest practices. We avoid all conflicts between our personal and Raisio’s interests.

In the course of business, no Raisio employee or any other third party acting on Raisio’s behalf may take unfair advantage of anyone by directly or indirectly giving, promising, authorising or offering cash or any other benefit exceeding ordinary hospitality. This also applies outside the scope of business, i.e. Raisio’s employees and partners may not take unfair advantage through directly or indirectly asking for, demanding, accepting or receiving a benefit exceeding ordinary hospitality.

Raisio’s property, brands and trade secrets

We treat Raisio’s property appropriately and with care. The company’s property includes, for example, land, production plants, machinery and equipment, software and the company’s assets. In addition, Raisio’s property includes patents, trademarks, copyrights, customer and product information, and trade secrets, such as pricing criteria.

Raisio brands are an essential part of the company property. We protect Raisio brands and intervene in any unauthorised or inappropriate use of our brands. The use of Raisio name or brands as a reference always requires a specific permission.

We protect trade secrets, personal data and customer information appropriately and in accordance with information security rules.

Product safety

Our customers and consumers can always trust the safety of our products. We take special care of product safety related matters. We regularly monitor and identify the risks associated with product safety. We also plan and carry out measures to minimise and manage these risks. We monitor compliance with the established guidelines and procedures. We provide regular staff training in product safety matters. Our operating systems are based on the internationally approved quality and product safety standards and on our own continuous improvement work.

Raw materials, food allergens and other required information are clearly described on the packaging labels. Our products are marketed in accordance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations.

Environment

Our business operations are based on renewable raw materials and on sustainable, environmentally friendly activities. Our several innovations improve the environmental friendliness and sustainability of the food chain. Environmental impacts significantly affect our investment decisions, too.

Raisio’s environmental priorities are improvement of energy and material efficiency. The company reports on the environmental impact of its operations once a year in the Corporate Responsibility Report.

Procurement

Our partners must commit to the Raisio Supplier Code of Conduct. They must comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, as well as guidelines and instructions provided by Raisio.

Communication

We communicate openly, interactively and honestly. Raisio is listed on the NASDAQ Helsinki Ltd; as a listed company we comply with the information disclosure obligation and publish information on the Raisio Group’s activities and financial performance to all stakeholders at the same time. Our subsidiaries around the world comply with local regulations and guidelines in their reporting. 

Media communication is coordinated by Raisio Group Communications. The flow of inside information is ensured through, for example, intranet and superior communications. In social media, we comply with Raisio’s Social Media Guidelines.  

Inside information

Raisio is a publicly listed company, so the company and its employees are obliged to follow the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The Regulation includes, for example, rules concerning inside trading and the disclosure and misuse of inside information. Raisio expects its personnel, management and members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board to comply with the laws as well as the rules and regulations based on these laws.

Competition

We comply with the applicable competition law. We do not accept illegal cooperation between competitors and we do not discuss, for example, prices, products or other trade secrets with competitors.  

Money laundering

We are committed to the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing. We comply with all local and international laws and regulations against terrorism, corruption and money laundering.

Animal testing

Raisio’s products are made of renewable, mainly plant-based raw materials. We do not conduct animal testing in the development of new food products. In some countries, market access for products or the use of a health claim may involve mandatory animal testing to ensure the safety or efficacy of ingredients.

Raisio may participate in scientific research projects that may include animal testing.

Compliance with the Code of Conduct

All Raisio employees are expected to comply with the Raisio Code of Conduct. Employees are encouraged to report suspected or actual misconduct to the immediate superior or his/her superior. Employees can also report their observations of misconduct using the email address compliance@raisio.com; or anonymously mail a letter to Raisio’s Vice President of Legal Affairs or CFO. Employees’ reports of misconduct are always treated strictly confidentially. The party’s legitimate expectations or position are never threatened.

Raisio does not tolerate violation of the Code of Conduct from its employees. It will always lead to disciplinary action and the continuation of employment will be reassessed.

Raisio’s Vice President, Legal Affairs answers any questions or inquiries concerning the Raisio Code of Conduct.

1. Introduction

Sustainability is a core element of Raisio Group’s strategy. We comply with all applicable international and local laws in the countries where we operate. We respect the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the fundamental rights defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO). In addition, we are committed to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.

This Sustainability Policy provides the framework for our Good Food Programme, which is built around five responsibility themes: Environmentally Friendly Packaging, Good Food Professionals, Healthy Food, Environment and Climate Action, and Sustainable Food Chain. Specific sustainability goals and performance indicators are defined within the programme’s working groups and are reported annually in our Corporate Responsibility Report.

The policy also outlines objectives related to environmental protection, integrating relevant elements of our environmental management system.

Oversight of this policy lies with the Group’s Board of Directors, which ensures that ESG matters are fully integrated into the company’s strategy, decision-making processes, and risk management.

2. Principles of Responsible Procurement

Our approach to responsible procurement is based on the following principles:

• Ethical conduct: Suppliers and farmers must adhere to Raisio Group’s Supplier Code of Conduct.
• Human rights: We comply with the Board-approved Human Rights Policy and require our suppliers and subcontractors to respect and uphold human rights throughout their operations.
• Working conditions and fair treatment: We ensure that our supply chain is free from child and forced labour and that it promotes fair and safe working conditions.
• Local community support: We are committed to supporting local communities and farmers through our procurement practices.
• International standards: We require our suppliers to comply with internationally recognised human rights standards, such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs).
• High-risk countries: We avoid sourcing raw materials from high-risk countries when competitively priced alternatives are available. High-risk countries are identified in accordance with the BSCI framework.
• High-risk raw materials: We only use responsibly certified soy, palm oil, and cocoa. For berry and fruit products, we require suppliers to exercise particular due diligence in safeguarding human rights.
• Sustainable farming: We support the development of sustainable farming practices, assisting farmers in measuring their carbon footprint and transitioning towards more sustainable cultivation. We offer a sustainable farming contract model to promote sustainable oat farming.
• Non-GMO: All raw materials used in our products are GMO-free.
• Origin of grain: All grain raw materials we use are of Finnish origin, with the exception of durum wheat.

2.1 Supply Chain Monitoring and Development

• Supplier self-assessments: We require suppliers to complete a Supplier Self-Audit at least once every three years.
• Audits and inspections: We regularly evaluate supplier operations and carry out audits based on risk. Annual on-site audits typically cover areas such as variety selection, cultivation methods, grain handling, and storage practices.
• Food safety: All suppliers of raw materials, packaging, and subcontracted products must hold certification under a Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) recognised standard (BRCGS, IFS, or FSSC 22000). Where certification is not in place, we assess food safety through dedicated audits.
• Transparency and reporting: We collaborate with stakeholders to enhance transparency and reporting across the supply chain, in line with applicable legislation, industry best practices, and customer expectations.
• Continuous improvement: We actively promote the development of responsible practices and innovations in partnership with our suppliers.

3. Packaging Principles

• Product safety and quality: Ensuring the safety and quality of our products is the primary consideration in all packaging decisions. Food products must retain their full quality throughout their shelf life.
• Recyclability: All consumer packaging is fully recyclable and includes clear recycling instructions.
• Material selection: We prioritise mono-material solutions wherever possible and are committed to increasing the use of renewable and recycled materials.
• Material efficiency: We aim to optimise packaging sizes and minimise the overall use of packaging materials.
• Recycled content: We are working to increase the proportion of recycled materials used in our packaging.
• Fibre-based packaging: We prefer fibre-based packaging sourced from sustainable origins, such as FSC- or PEFC-certified materials.

4. Responsibility in Our Own Operations

4.1 Energy Efficiency and Carbon Neutrality

• Energy efficiency: We are committed to enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions across all our operations. In investment decisions, we prioritise the most energy-efficient solutions, unless there is a compelling reason to choose otherwise.
• Domestic wood chips: We use certified domestic wood chips for our heat and steam production, with traceability down to the forest plot or municipal level.
• Emission reduction targets: We are committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and to setting science-based climate targets that support efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C, in line with the Paris Agreement. We are dedicated to acting in accordance with these targets and integrating them into our business strategy.

4.2 Material Efficiency

• Minimising production waste: We aim to reduce waste and side streams at every stage of production, while improving processes to ensure more efficient use of materials.
• Monitoring and optimisation: We continuously enhance the monitoring of material flows and optimise production processes to minimise surplus and improve resource efficiency.
• Circular economy solutions: In line with circular economy principles, we actively seek new applications for production by-products and food waste.
• Product development: When developing new products, we strive to minimise environmental impacts from the outset by selecting responsible raw materials and packaging, and by anticipating surplus volumes and commercialisation opportunities. We leverage customer collaboration and market insights to better forecast production volumes and reduce overproduction and waste.
• Improving forecasting: We explore new technological solutions to enhance forecasting accuracy, helping to optimise procurement and reduce waste of raw materials, packaging, and finished products.
• Cross-functional cooperation: We ensure that material procurement and production volumes are closely aligned with market demand, thereby reducing surplus and waste.
• Data-driven improvement: We utilise analytics to support forecasting and drive continuous improvement across our operations.
• Reducing food waste downstream: We work in partnership with retailers and other stakeholders to reduce food waste, for example by directing products nearing their expiry date to discount outlets or donations, and by developing receiving practices such as minimum shelf-life requirements.

5. Reporting and Monitoring

We publish an annual Corporate Responsibility Report in accordance with applicable legislation and industry guidelines.

We regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our Sustainability Policy and update it as required.

Quality, environment, health and safety work is an important part of Raisio’s Corporate Responsibility. We comply with all local, national and international laws and regulations regarding our operations. We operate in accordance with Raisio Code of Conduct, our other policies and commitments.

We develop our operations in line with the principle of continuous improvement. We systematically train our personnel in quality, environmental, health and safety topics. We follow and identify risks related to the quality, environment, health and safety of our own operations. We also plan and implement measures to minimize and manage these risks.

Environment

• We are committed to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations by focusing on the improvement of energy and material efficiency and on the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.
• We make use of environmentally friendly innovations.

Safety and health

• We are committed to actively developing safety to protect our personnel, property and environment against accidents and damage.
• We support the physical and mental well-being of our personnel through systematic operating models.
• Accident prevention is the priority in our safety work.

Quality and food safety

• We systematically develop the quality of our operations.
• We meet the expectations of our customers and consumers and we do not compromise on product safety.
• We ensure the quality and safety by monitoring our performance in all areas of our operations.
• Effective in-house control as well as the continuous training and competence development of the personnel are key parts of our product safety culture.
• Through certificates and audits, we verify that our operations and processes are of high-quality and in accordance with the standards. We are committed to complying with the requirements of our certificates in our operations.

• Quality Management System ISO 9001
• Environmental Management System ISO 14001
• BRC or FSSC 22000 food product safety certificate at food production plants in Raisio and Kauhava
• Mills certified for organic production
• Kosher certificate at some food production plants
• Halal certificates in the Benecol® ingredient production and the Nokia mill’s and Kauhava plant’s production
• RSPO Supply Chain certificate at the Nokia mill
• Certified Gluten Free label for the Nokia mill’s production of gluten-free oats

Purpose of Raisio’s Human Rights Policy

Respecting human rights is fundamental to the Raisio Group and sets the foundation for our values and Code of Conduct which guide our day-to-day work. Raisio’s values are Courage, Fairness and Drive. This Human Rights policy will complement the Code of Conduct and it is applied in all Raisio Group Companies globally. Raisio expects its suppliers and contractors to monitor their performance in respecting human rights.

Raisio complies with international and local laws and regulations valid at any time in the countries in which it operates. Raisio respects the UN declaration of human rights and the fundamental rights at work as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO). These rights cover freedom of association, the right to organise or not to organise, the right to collective bargaining, the prohibition of forced labour and child labour, and employees’ right to equal treatment and opportunities. Raisio is also committed to the ten principles of the UN Global Compact initiative regarding human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.

Employees

Raisio commits to treating its employees with dignity and respect. Raisio does not tolerate any discrimination at work based on, e.g. race, gender, religion or sexual orientation. Regardless of personal characteristics, Raisio does not tolerate disrespectful or inappropriate behavior, unfair treatment or retaliation of any kind. To ensure remediation of potential abuses, Raisio has established a channel which is available to all employees.

Raisio commits to providing a safe and healthy workplace. Raisio complies with all applicable safety and health laws, regulations and Raisio’s internal requirements. Accident prevention is the top priority in Raisio’s safety work. Raisio continues the determined improvement of Raisio’s work safety culture. Raisio encourages everyone to use preventive safety tools and to make safety observations. Working conditions should allow for safe working practices and support the occupational health and well-being of employees. Raisio’s continuous target is to improve health and safety in Raisio’s workplaces.

Reporting suspected violations

Employees are encouraged to report suspected or actual misconduct to the immediate superior or his/her superior. Employees can also report their observations of misconduct using the email address compliance@raisio.com; or anonymously mail a letter to Raisio’s Vice President of Legal Affairs and Corporate Responsibility, Secretary of the Board or CFO. Employees’ reports of misconduct are always treated strictly confidentially. The party’s legitimate expectations or position are never threatened.

Suppliers and Contractors

Raisio works with its suppliers and contractors to ensure that human rights are respected in the supply chain and Raisio’s own operations and products. All Raisio’s suppliers and contractors are expected to sign Raisio’s Supplier Code of Conduct. As appropriate, Raisio uses tools for human rights risk and impact assessments to identify actual and potential human rights issues. Raisio regularly audits its suppliers and contractors and human rights are an essential part of the audit. Human rights related issues are also addressed in self-assessment documents which are required to be provided prior to becoming Raisio’s supplier or contractor.

Reporting

Raisio reports its progress in respecting human rights in its report on non-financial items and in the corporate responsibility report on an annual basis. The reporting also includes information on possible human rights violations and actions taken.

Raisio’s Board of Directors has approved this Policy. Any non-compliance with this Policy will be brought to the attention of the Group’s Executive Committee. Raisio’s Corporate Responsibility Team reviews and, when required, updates this Human Rights Policy.

Raisio’s Human Rights Policy is publicly available and is communicated internally and externally.

Date issued: November 19, 2020

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement for fiscal year 2023

Raisio expects its raw material suppliers operate ethically. This is ensured by requesting the suppliers to commit to Raisio Group Supplier Code of Conduct. Supplier Code of Conduct contains requirements related to, e.g., environmental responsibility, work conditions based on international standards, ban on child and forced labour, and anti-discrimination.

Furthermore, all raw material suppliers must complete a Supplier Self-Audit form at least every three years.

1. Introduction

1.1 To ensure responsible conduct with respect to ethical, social and environmental issues, this Supplier Code of Conduct (hereinafter referred to as “SCC”) summarises the minimum requirements to which Raisio plc and and any company within the Raisio Group (hereinafter referred to as “Raisio”) is committed and to which Raisio requires its suppliers to commit in order to conduct business with Raisio.

1.2 For the purposes of this SCC, the “Supplier” means any supplier and any business entity affiliated to such supplier (by way of consolidation in the same group of companies or throughout its own supply chain) of deliverables including without limitation supplies, goods, services, consultation, equipment and products to Raisio and any entity within the Raisio Group.

2. Human and labour rights

2.1 The Supplier is required to
a) fully conform with human rights arising from the UN Declaration of human rights, national law and international treaties, in all respects;
b) treat each individual respectfully and with dignity and
c) respect the privacy and rights of each individual.

2.2 The supplier shall not
a) employ a child who is under the legal employment age, which is 15 years (or 14 years if so regulated by the applicable laws). Every child is to be protected from economic exploitation and from carrying out work that can be considered dangerous, to have a negative effect on the child’s education or to be harmful to the child’s health or development;
b) force any person to work against his or her will;
c) persecute, discriminate and/or harass anyone based on any reason, such as gender, age, sexual orientation, colour, race, social background, ethnic origin, disability, pregnancy, religion, political opinions, union membership;
d) engage in sexual, physical or verbal abuse and corporal punishment and threat of the same or
e) force its employees to hand over their valuables or identification documents.

2.3 The Supplier is required to treat its employees in a fair and equal manner and to respect the employees’ freedom of association and right to collective bargaining.

2.4 The Supplier is required to pay (and cause its sub-suppliers and subcontractors to pay) its employees at least the minimum salary in accordance with the applicable law and/or collective bargaining agreement. Any deduction from wages as a disciplinary measure is prohibited.

2.5 The Supplier is required to fully comply with applicable legislation and/or collective bargaining agreements related to working hours and rest periods.

3. Occupational health and safety

3.1 The Supplier is responsible for the health and safety of its employees. The Supplier shall at least comply with the minimum standards according to national and local laws and regulations regarding the work environment.

3.2 The Supplier shall take the best possible precautionary measures against accidents and occupational diseases. The Supplier must educate and train employees in health and safety issues as well as introduce and maintain an adequate occupational health and safety management system.

4. The environment

4.1 The Supplier is required to comply with all environmental laws, regulations and standards applicable to its operations. The Supplier will observe environmentally friendly practices in all locations where it operates.

4.2 The Supplier must actively work to reduce emissions into the air, soil and waterways and make more efficient use of natural resources.

5. Business practices, anti-corruption and legal compliance

5.1 The Supplier is required to conduct its business in an ethical manner. This includes that the Supplier:
a) refrains from all forms of corruption and bribery, whether direct or indirect. The Supplier is especially required to ensure that payments, gifts and acts of hospitality are in compliance with applicable anti-bribery laws and not lavish;
b) strictly complies with competition and anti-trust laws in all aspects of its business;
c) refrains from any infringements of intellectual property rights;
d) protects the confidentiality of all confidential information provided by Raisio and others;
e) takes responsibility of any personal data in its possession and complies fully with data security legislation;
f) undertakes to have in place and to maintain all statutory social and other insurances and
g) complies with international trade regulations and export control regulations.

5.2 The Supplier is required to accurately and transparently record information related to its business activities, financial figures and situation in conformity with applicable legislation.

5.3 The Supplier is required to comply with all applicable legislation in all jurisdictions where it conducts business.

6. Conflicts of interest

6.1 The Supplier is required to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.

6.2 If the Supplier detects a circumstance which might lead to a conflict of interest, the Supplier shall forthwith inform Raisio of such circumstance. The Supplier shall always disclose of any financial interest, excluding shares and other instruments on publicly listed companies, an employee of Raisio may hold in the Supplier’s business.

7. Cooperation and compliance

7.1 The Supplier is required to ensure that this SCC is implemented. The Supplier shall ensure and regularly monitor the compliance with this SCC.

7.2 Raisio reserves the right to monitor the compliance of this SCC. The Supplier will allow Raisio and/or parties designated by Raisio to perform compliance monitoring and audits of documents and premises related to the co-operation.

8. Enforcement

8.1 In case the Supplier does not comply with this SCC, Raisio may provide the Supplier with guidance on necessary actions and the Supplier undertakes to take such corrective actions forthwith.

8.2 If the Supplier fails to fully comply with the terms of this SCC, Raisio has the right to terminate its business co-operation with the Supplier. This termination right exists without prejudice to any other rights Raisio may have under any contract between Raisio and the Supplier.

Raisio plc’s Disclosure Policy is available in the Investors section.

Raisio plc’s Disclosure Policy

Board of Directors

Approves the double materiality analysis and the sustainability report annually. Regularly discusses sustainability topics as part of board meetings and oversees the implementation of sustainability. Approves key operating principles and confirms the themes of the Good Food Program.

Sustainability Committee of the Supervisory Board

Oversees company’s compliance with sustainability issues as part of the Supervisory Board’s task to supervise the corporate administration run by the Board and CEO.

Board of Directors’ Audit Committee

Reviews the double materiality analysis and its updates for board approval. Monitors sustainability reporting and related processes to ensure alignment with the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and ESRS standards. Supports the board in evaluating the content and quality of the sustainability report and reports key findings to the board.

CEO and the Group Management Team (until June 2024 Executive Committee)

In charge of the Raisio Group’s Corporate Responsibility as part of the company’s strategy.

Chief Brand & Sustainability Officer

Leads Raisio Group’s sustainability work.

ESG Manager

Responsible for defining the objectives of the sustainability program, i.e., the Good Food Program, and overseeing its progress.

Sustainability team

Acts as a sustainability expert and ensures consistency in sustainability actions. Supports the organization in sustainability work and coordinates stakeholder collaboration, such as sustainability reporting. Ensures that sustainability goals align with the business strategy and monitors their achievement. Supports the implementation of the Good Food Program.

Working Groups of the Good Food Program

Responsible for the practical organization and implementation of actions in the five main projects of the Good Food Program, as well as achieving the set goals.