Dr. Oetker Stories
One number, many factors: how a CO₂ footprint is created
To reduce emissions in a targeted way, we first need to understand where they occur. That is why we calculate the carbon footprint of our products. By doing so, we make climate impacts transparent – and create a reliable basis for informed product decisions.
2.7.2026 • Sustainability Our Food
Every product we make has an impact on the climate.
The Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) makes this impact measurable. It shows how many greenhouse gas emissions occur over the life cycle of a product. The result is expressed in kilograms of CO₂ equivalents (kg CO₂e), combining different greenhouse gases into a single, comparable metric.
Product Carbon Footprint: the basis for better decisions
At Dr. Oetker, we calculate the Product Carbon Footprint of our products using a Life Cycle Assessment methodology in line with ISO 14067. We consider the product life cycle from the cultivation of raw materials through production and packaging to the point where our products reach the retailer.
This results in product‑specific carbon footprints, which may vary depending on recipe, product weight, production site and country of sale.
Our PCF methodology was independently reviewed and verified by TÜV Nord in February 2026 in accordance with ISO 14067. Both our calculation approach and the underlying data were externally verified.
“Consumers are increasingly asking for this information. With an externally verified methodology based on an ISO standard, we can now calculate it consistently and credibly”, Robert Morrow, Senior Sustainability Manager
How recipes influence the PCF
A look at our products shows how strongly different recipes can influence the carbon footprint:
The Product Carbon Footprint of Ristorante Pomodori Vegan is around 50% lower than that of Ristorante Margherita. In turn, Ristorante Margherita has a PCF that is around 10% lower than Ristorante Salame. The main reason is the use of vegan raw materials, which generally cause significantly lower CO₂e emissions.
“The Product Carbon Footprint helps us better understand where emissions occur – and where we can take concrete action”, Michael Grikschas, Project Manager Reporting & Data Sustainability
We want to be transparent about the environmental impacts of our pizzas so that consumers can make informed decisions. At present, the wide range of calculation methods and labels on the market is still difficult for consumers to compare and understand. For this reason, we will initially communicate the PCF in selected markets and for selected products, and further develop our approach based on the feedback we receive.
Based on this, we are pursuing clear, near-term targets, that have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
For more information please contact:
Katharina Ahnepohl
Media Spokesperson Sustainability