Guckenheimer Earns Top Protein Sustainability Ranking for Fifth Consecutive Year, Exceeding Goals and Outpacing Industry

NEW YORK, NY - May 11, 2026 - Guckenheimer, the culinary division of workplace experience and facility management leader ISS, has earned the #1 ranking and an A+ rating on the Humane World for Animals’ 2026 Food Service Industry Protein Sustainability Scorecard for the fifth consecutive year.

The annual scorecard evaluates the largest U.S. food service companies on their progress toward climate-friendly, plant-based menus and reduced reliance on animal-based proteins — a key driver of food-related greenhouse gas emissions.

The shift toward more plant-forward menus also aligns with broader public health needs. According to the CDC, roughly 90% of Americans do not consume enough fruits and vegetables, underscoring a significant gap between current diets and recommended nutrition patterns. Expanding access to delicious, accessible plant-forward options in everyday dining environments can help address both environmental and health outcomes simultaneously.

While many organizations have introduced sustainability goals, the report finds that many companies lag in measurable progress and implementation of those commitments. Among the companies evaluated, only 32% earned a B rating or higher, and just 16% have committed to reducing animal product purchases.

Recognizing that a shift toward plant-based foods is the most impactful way corporate dining companies can reduce their impact on the planet and reach their sustainability goals, Guckenheimer continues to stand out for its holistic "Beyond Sustainability" philosophy that blends plant-forward menu goals into day-to-day operations across its dining programs.

“Our approach has been to make plant-forward dining delicious and practical at scale and make a tangible impact on community, whole-person health and care for the planet,” said Rene van Camp, Principal, Guckenheimer. “That means empowering chefs with the tools to build menus differently while giving diners options that feel familiar, not restrictive.”

"Guckenheimer’s #1 ranking on the Protein Sustainability Scorecard in the U.S. is a testament to the passion, dedication and innovation of their entire team. The company continues to set the standard for what’s possible in our industry, proving that meaningful change is driven by both vision and execution. Their chefs are deeply committed to reimagining menus in ways that are both impactful and inspiring, leading the industry to a more sustainable food system,” added Alicia Bell, Director, Culinary Innovation at Humane World for Animals.

As part of ISS' broader climate strategy, Guckenheimer has committed to lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with its corporate dining operations by at least 25% by 2030 through the Coolfood Pledge. Its approach centers on integrating plant-forward strategies into menu design, procurement and kitchen operations.

PowerPlant, the company’s proprietary toolkit, guides chefs in using plant-forward ingredients as the foundation of meals while reducing reliance on animal proteins. Guckenheimer has also invested in training and capability building, with 31 chefs completing the Humane World for Animals’ Plant Powered Ambassador certification and ongoing culinary workshops to support implementation across accounts.

Pairing these efforts with operational tracking and measurable goals, Guckenheimer monitors greenhouse gas impacts tied to the food it serves, incorporates plant-based defaults into menu design and continues to expand the use of new recipes and product innovations across its programs.

Its sustainability strategy also extends beyond protein sourcing. In 2025, Guckenheimer launched its first Zero Waste Cookbook, developed by their chefs to highlight low-waste, climate-conscious recipes. The company is a signatory of the U.S. Food Waste Pact and has participated in pilot programs to reduce supply chain waste, including testing the use of imperfect produce in its cafés. It also partners with AI technology providers such as Winnow to track and reduce food waste in kitchens.

In 2025, Guckenheimer exceeded their goals with more than half (56%) plant-based meals, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to shifting menu composition over time.

The full 2026 Food Service Industry Protein Sustainability Scorecard is available at HumaneWorld.org/FoodReport.

About Guckenheimer
Guckenheimer, ISS North America’s culinary division, is the premier provider of chef-crafted meals that enhance the corporate dining experience and reflect a commitment to hospitality and service excellence. The company transforms traditional corporate dining spaces into signature destinations that offer restaurant-quality cuisine, promote whole-person health and inspire memorable connections. Through the expertise of 2,500 culinary professionals, Guckenheimer serves thousands of meals each day in nearly 250 facilities across North America. Its food programs have supported well-being, employee engagement, top performance, sustainability and positive, inclusive workplace environments for more than 60 years.

ISS North America provides facility management, culinary, workplace and hospitality-focused programs to some of the biggest name brands in offices, manufacturing facilities, airports, laboratories and other commercial locations across the USA and the world.

Media Contact

Shreena Saheba, Akrete Communications
shreena.saheba@akrete.com