Less Left Over: How Local Small Businesses and Carnival Corporation Work Together to Reduce Food Waste
Behind every great meal at sea is a network of people on land who make it possible.
For Carnival Corporation’s Alaska operations, that starts in the Pacific Northwest with Charlie’s Produce, a Seattle‑based supplier that connects our ships with local farms and fresh, thoughtfully grown ingredients. Through this partnership, sustainability isn’t an abstract idea – it’s a shared commitment that supports local businesses and delivers fresher food guests can taste.
To help supply voyages aboard Carnival Corporation cruise lines including Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, Cunard and Carnival Cruise Line, Charlie’s Produce works closely with local farmers that share our values and commitment to reducing our environmental impact. For example, Jake Sterino of Sterino Farms and Chris Carpinito of Carpinito Brothers grow high-quality food with sustainability in mind to help safeguard the land, their communities and the future. Plus, by sourcing food from trusted small businesses closer to where our ships depart, we’re able to lower transport-related emissions while ensuring fresher ingredients – helping to reduce spoilage and cut food waste as part of the company’s Less Left Over strategy.
“It’s pretty cool to think about,” reflects Jake Sterino. “People from all over the world come to Seattle, step onto a cruise ship, and are enjoying produce grown right here in the Northwest.”
For guests, that might mean a fresh salad in the middle of the ocean – something easy to take for granted if you live nearby, but meaningful if you don’t.
“For us, it’s a reminder that smart sourcing and strong partnerships help us raise our game. And that’s something we’re proud of,” said Tygann Billow, co-CEO of Charlie’s Produce.
