Iowa, the leading corn-producing state in the US, accounted for over 15% of the nation’s corn supply in 2024. The partnership, supported by Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI), a nonprofit with strong ties to the Midwest farming community, aims to equip farmers with tailored guidance to adopt sustainable practices. PFI will provide region-specific advice to enhance crop production while improving soil health and resilience.
The collaboration seeks to strengthen the agricultural system, which is vital for PepsiCo, a company that sources 35 crops from over 60 countries. Cargill, a key global supplier, plays an essential role in connecting farmers to PepsiCo’s supply chain. The initiative supports farming communities by promoting regenerative practices and fostering sustainable agriculture on a large scale.
“By working with farmers to understand what’s best for their farms and partnering across the supply chain, we can accelerate the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices that can result in healthier soil, reduced emissions, and improved crop yields and livelihoods for farmers,” said Jim Andrew, PepsiCo Chief Sustainability Officer. “This collaboration among PepsiCo, Cargill, and Practical Farmers of Iowa creates shared value and long-term sustainability that we believe will strengthen our business today and in the future.”
“This partnership is about delivering practical, measurable results – starting on the farm, where the food system begins,” said Pilar Cruz, Chief Sustainability Officer at Cargill. “By coming together across the value chain, we can help create the conditions for regenerative agriculture to take root and grow. The collaboration offers a model for how we can drive meaningful impact at scale.”
The initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s goal to implement regenerative practices across 10 million acres globally by 2030 and Cargill’s target to advance regenerative agriculture on 10 million acres in North America by the same year. Participating farmers will receive agronomic support, incentive payments, and technical resources to adopt sustainable practices. PFI will oversee implementation, ensuring credible outcomes through science-based monitoring and verification.
This effort builds on years of collaboration between PepsiCo, Cargill, and PFI, aiming to transform agricultural practices to benefit farmers, communities, and the environment.
