Greenpeace organizations in Denmark and New Zealand have filed lawsuits against major dairy companies Arla Foods and Fonterra for allegedly misleading environmental claims. Arla Foods, headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark, and Fonterra, based in Auckland, New Zealand, are accused of “systematic greenwashing” related to their CO₂ reduction reports and product labeling. Greenpeace claims these companies overstate sustainability efforts while continuing polluting practices, triggering a global push to hold the livestock sector accountable for false climate claims.
On June 6, 2025, major dairy producers Arla Foods of Aarhus, Denmark, and Fonterra headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, face mounting legal challenges accusing them of misleading consumers with false environmental claims. Greenpeace organizations in both countries have initiated lawsuits amid a growing international campaign targeting “greenwashing” in the dairy sector.
Greenpeace Denmark recently filed a formal complaint with the Danish Business Authority, asserting that Arla Foods has exaggerated its greenhouse gas emission reductions. Arla claims a 13% cut in supply chain CO₂ emissions since 2015; however, Greenpeace contends that nearly half this reported reduction occurred due to a change in calculation methods in 2016 without adjusting the baseline, potentially violating financial reporting laws in Denmark and Sweden.
In New Zealand, Greenpeace Aotearoa has sued Fonterra over misleading packaging of its Anchor butter, marketed as “100% New Zealand grass-fed.” Investigations revealed that up to 20% of the cows’ feed contains imported palm kernel linked to deforestation, contradicting the product’s sustainable image.
These misleading claims undermine consumers trying to shop ethically and mask the true environmental impact of intensive livestock farming.”
Amanda Larsson, spokesperson for Greenpeace Aotearoa
These lawsuits are part of a wider wave of legal actions targeting environmental claims across the global livestock industry. Recent precedents include Danish Crown’s guilty verdict for misleading pork advertisements and ongoing cases against major meat producers.
As these cases unfold, the dairy industry faces intensified scrutiny regarding transparency and accountability in its environmental messaging, reflecting increasing consumer demand for genuine sustainability.