In recognition of its commitment to employee health and wellness, Del Monte Foods has attained the prestigious Platinum Fit-Friendly status in the American Heart Association's Start! Fit-Friendly Companies program for the second consecutive year. The program recognizes companies that champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity in the workplace.
"Del Monte's participation in the American Heart Association's Fit-Friendly program is a reflection of our continued commitment to our employees' health and wellness," said Richard G. Wolford, Del Monte Foods chairman and CEO. "We are committed to our wellness program's growth and continue to expand the offerings every year. Here at Del Monte, we know that a healthy, active lifestyle is our best weapon against health ailments; after all, research shows that for every hour of regular exercise people get, they can gain about two hours of additional life expectancy. Del Monte Foods is proud to be part of the American Heart Association's Start! Movement."
Platinum Fit-Friendly companies are recognized for implementing programs and activities that encourage, among other wellness initiatives, physical activity, nutrition and culture enhancements, and preventative health measures. Companies that meet at least nine criteria outlined by the American Heart Association may be considered for this highest level of recognition in the Start! Fit-Friendly Companies program. This year, only 18 percent of the 931 Fit-Friendly companies received the Platinum designation.
Del Monte has created a vibrant wellness culture through the company's comprehensive wellness initiative, Living Healthy ... Every Day, a popular program that provides employees with tools and resources to own their health, lead a healthier lifestyle and make an impact in the community. Through the program, employees receive discounts on wellness programming, reimbursement for healthy lifestyle activities, rewards for preventative health care, access to health information and resources through a partnership with WebMD, a free day to participate in community service, and more. In addition, employees enjoy other benefits through company programs which include educational health seminars, healthy snack breaks, office health and wellness teams, and annual Health & Wellness Fairs.
For more information about the American Heart Association's Start! Fit-Friendly Companies program, visit www.startwalkingnow.org.
About Del Monte Foods
Del Monte Foods is one of the country's largest and most well-known producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded pet products and food products for the U.S. retail market, generating approximately $3.7 billion in net sales in fiscal 2010. With a powerful portfolio of brands, Del Monte products are found in eight out of 10 U.S. households. Pet food and pet snacks brands include Meow Mix, Kibbles 'n Bits , Milk-Bone, 9Lives, Pup-Peroni, Gravy Train , Nature's Recipe, Canine Carry-Outs and other brand names. Food product brands include Del Monte, Contadina, S&W , College Innand other brand names. The company also produces and distributes private-label pet products and food products.