Carnival Corp. Brings Meal Donation Program to Latin America

MIAMI, Oct. 2, 2025 – Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world’s largest cruise company, is making waves with a significant expansion of its food waste reduction strategy. The company announced today it has formalized partnerships in Mexico, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic, marking the first time a cruise line has established meal donation programs in Latin America. This initiative, part of Carnival’s broader “Less Left Over” strategy, aims to minimize food waste while simultaneously combating food insecurity in the regions it serves.

These agreements, formalized through memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with local food banks and community organizations, will see Carnival’s cruise ships redirect surplus, high-quality prepared meals to those in need. The partnerships extend Carnival’s existing meal donation program to 19 port destinations worldwide.

“Expanding our meal donation program into Latin America reflects our commitment to the communities we visit,” stated Vicky Rey, Vice President of Government Affairs for Latin America, Carnival Corporation. “We aim to address hunger by providing nutritious meals to families and children, and we’re grateful to our partners in Mexico, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic for their invaluable collaboration.”

Strategic Partnerships for Maximum Impact

Carnival is taking a targeted approach in each country:

• Mexico: A collaboration with Bancos de Alimentos de Mexico (Red BAMX) will begin in Ensenada before potentially extending to other port cities where Carnival Cruise Line ships dock.
• Honduras: Partnering with Mayor Ron McNab of Roatán, Carnival will distribute surplus meals and ingredients to schools, hospitals, and community organizations on the island.
• Dominican Republic: Agreements with the Catholic Diocese of Puerto Plata and Banco de Alimentos República Dominicana will facilitate meal distribution to vulnerable populations across Puerto Plata.

These partnerships align with the Global FoodBanking Network, ensuring responsible and efficient distribution of food where it is needed most.

Beyond Philanthropy: A Sustainability Play

While the social impact is undeniable, Carnival’s “Less Left Over” strategy also underscores a growing emphasis on sustainability within the cruise industry. Food waste has long been a challenge for cruise operators due to the sheer volume of meals prepared daily. By proactively addressing surplus food, Carnival not only contributes to local communities but also optimizes its operational efficiencies and reduces potential environmental impacts. Industry analysts note that such initiatives are increasingly viewed favorably by environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

The move also comes as Carnival faces increasing scrutiny from environmental groups regarding its overall carbon footprint. While meal donation might seem like a small step, it demonstrates a willingness to address environmental and social governance (ESG) concerns, which are becoming critical factors for publicly traded companies like Carnival.

Building on a Proven Model

Carnival’s meal donation program started in 2017 with Costa Cruises, partnering with Fondazione Banco Alimentare in Europe. The program has already delivered over 300,000 unserved meals to communities in Spain, Italy, France, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. The company is actively exploring expansion opportunities in the United States, the Caribbean, and other regions, working closely with local authorities to ensure compliance with food donation regulations.

About Carnival Corporation & plc

Carnival Corporation & plc is the world’s largest cruise company, boasting a portfolio of leading cruise lines, including AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn.

To learn more about Carnival Corporation’s commitment to sustainability and its positive impact on people and the planet, visit www.carnivalcorp.com/impact/.