Ferrero has outlined how satellite technology is helping the company improve the traceability of key ingredients including cocoa, palm oil and coffee as it works to strengthen responsible sourcing across its global supply chain.
The company has been working with the Starling satellite monitoring platform for the past decade. Developed by Airbus Defence and the Earthworm Foundation, the system uses satellite imagery and geospatial data to monitor agricultural landscapes where Ferrero sources some of its most important raw materials.
According to Ferrero, Starling currently maps and monitors around 230,000 plantations across cocoa, palm oil and coffee supply chains. The data helps the company identify environmental risks, improve ingredient traceability and support compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Satellite monitoring is combined with field visits and collaboration with suppliers and local partners to better understand farming practices and respond to issues identified through the data. Ferrero said this approach provides greater visibility across its sourcing network while helping protect forests and support farming communities.
The company added that the technology enables large-scale monitoring of agricultural supply chains, allowing it to make more informed sourcing decisions based on how landscapes change over time.
For global FMCG, Ferrero’s approach reflects a wider industry shift towards digital tools that improve supply chain transparency and demonstrate compliance with evolving sustainability regulations. As retailers and consumers increasingly expect responsible sourcing, technologies such as satellite monitoring are becoming an important part of modern food supply chains.
Ferrero said it will continue using satellite monitoring alongside on-the-ground engagement to strengthen traceability and support responsible sourcing across its cocoa, palm oil and coffee supply chains.
