At Leonidas, we prioritise both the future of the planet and the satisfaction of our customers equally. Each day, we strive to create chocolates and pralines in the most environmentally responsible manner.

While we recognise there is still much to be done, we have already taken important steps and made meaningful changes that bring us closer to our goal: contributing to a more sustainable world for future generations.

We prioritise using local products and supporting local distribution channels whenever possible. For butter and cream, we trust the expertise of local producers who consistently deliver products of exceptional quality.

Although some ingredients, such as cocoa, are sourced from outside Belgium, we adhere to the highest quality standards in the production of our chocolates.

We are committed to minimising the waste we dispose of. With this goal in mind, for several years, we have been converting our food waste into animal feed. After making our chocolates, some ingredients remain that can no longer be used in other products, but are still perfectly edible. Instead of discarding them, we choose to donate them to animal shelters and breeders.

Since October 1, 2021, we at Leonidas have been using certified cocoa in the production of our chocolates. This transition aligns perfectly with our mission, which since 1913 has been to create moments of happiness for all through chocolate. Thanks to this certification, the living and working conditions of 2,450 cocoa growers and their families have been improved. By supporting fair and stable wages for these growers, we contribute to building a better world for both humanity and the planet.

For more happiness, and because we believe Leonidas chocolates should be accessible to everyone, we absorb all the costs associated with this commitment to sustainable cocoa, without raising our retail prices.

The programs of the Rainforest Alliance and Cocoa Horizons provide strong guarantees for sustainable cocoa, which is why we chose to join them at the start of this journey. These two certifications aim to improve the living standards of cocoa growers by enhancing the quality and yield of their production, protecting children, and eliminating deforestation.

In addition, we have signed the 'Beyond Chocolate' charter, a Belgian initiative that commits participants to actively fight deforestation and ensure cocoa growers receive a fair income.

Not only is the cocoa in our chocolates sustainably sourced, but the same applies to our packaging. Most of it already meets the standards of sustainable business practices. For instance, the majority of our cardboard and paper packaging is FSC-certified. The FSC label ensures that the materials come from verified, sustainable sources that meet strict environmental and social criteria.

By choosing our products, you are supporting sustainability and, like us, prioritising humanity and the environment in our decisions. Additionally, we have reorganised the production of most of our packaging to work with local companies, further reducing our environmental footprint.

For some of our packaging, particularly the items inside the boxes, we still use plastic. However, we ensure that we only use PET or polypropylene, both of which are made from at least 50% recycled materials. Unlike PVC, which is commonly used in many industries, PET is environmentally friendly and 100% recyclable. Additionally, due to its partial toxicity, PVC is not suitable for food packaging, which is why we prefer PET for our chocolates and confectionery. Occasionally, we also use polypropylene, a widely used plastic for food containers and packaging, which is also recyclable.

A closer look at our packaging… Made in Belgium, our iconic ballotin is crafted from cardboard covered with a thin layer of aluminium, giving it a beautiful golden hue. The aluminium represents less than 5% of the total weight, making the ballotin fully recyclable. Our cardboard boxes are FSC-certified, ensuring they are environmentally responsible. The blisters inside the boxes are made of PET, a material composed of at least 50% recycled plastic. Just like our ballotins, both our boxes and blisters are produced in Belgium.

Our cardboard decorations are not film-coated, making them 100% recyclable, and they are proudly made in Belgium. Our signature Leonidas carrier bag is recyclable, except for the straps, which can be removed. The cello bags we use are made from polypropylene and are recyclable.

For online orders, we use packing peanuts made from GM-free starch, which are 100% compostable. These peanuts are reusable, recyclable, or can even be dissolved in water.