When you think of Secret Recipe, you think of our iconic birthday cakes and your favourite celebration treats. However, behind every delicious slice, there's a story of environmental commitment that we're proud to share.
At Secret Recipe, we believe that sustainability is more than just a trend, it's a commitment woven into every facet of our operations. From sourcing to packaging, energy management to community involvement, our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives reflect our long-term vision. We are dedicated to operating responsibly while continuing to deliver high-quality cakes and memorable experiences for every celebration.
Our journey towards a more sustainable future begins with the spaces where we bake and serve our cakes. At our main production facility, we have installed solar panels that help us reduce our reliance on conventional energy sources. This shift has contributed to measurable outcomes, such as reductions in carbon emissions and overall energy savings.
In addition, sustainability is a key consideration in the design of Secret Recipe buildings and stores. At our factory, we utilise rainwater harvesting systems to conserve water and sensor lighting to reduce electricity usage.
As a leading cakes and café chain in Malaysia with over 360 outlets, Secret Recipe manages a significant amount of food waste every day. From eggshells and fruit peels to cake trimmings and vegetable scraps, our kitchens generate around 1 tonne of waste each week. Rather than letting these leftovers go to waste, we see them as an opportunity to make a positive impact.
We have teamed up with organic farmers and innovative partners like Atoz to ensure our food waste is put to good use. Selected scraps are sent for composting, where they are transformed into nutrient-rich mulch and organic fertiliser for local farms. In addition, some of our surplus food is used to feed black soldier fly larvae. These remarkable insects break down the waste and produce high-quality organic fertiliser and animal feed in the process.
Addressing plastic pollution is a crucial chapter in our sustainability story. We believe that convenience should never come at the cost of the environment. That is why we have completely rethought our takeaway experience, replacing traditional plastics with innovative, earth-friendly alternatives across all our factories and outlets.
Our signature cake boxes and paper packaging are crafted exclusively from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified paper. This is not just a label. It means our packaging actively protects endangered species, reduces deforestation, and helps maintain vital ecosystems. Every time you take away a Secret Recipe order, you are directly contributing to a more sustainable environment.
We have also phased out traditional plastic utensils in favour of 100% biodegradable, eco-friendly cutlery sets made entirely from cornstarch. This innovative, plant-based alternative does not compromise on the dining experience. It offers excellent food stability, is highly heat-resistant, and is completely non-toxic and FDA-compliant.
Every customer experience reflects these efforts. Whether you are dining in our cafés, ordering a celebration feast via GrabFood, or picking up a quick slice with SRGO!, your food is served in packaging that puts the planet first. With Secret Recipe, you can enjoy your special moments while supporting a healthier Earth.
Beyond our internal efforts, Secret Recipe is passionate about spreading the message of sustainability. We regularly organise and participate in community-based environmental programmes such as tree planting efforts with AIESEC and Free Tree Society at Nottingham Malaysia Campus, taken part in mangrove clean-ups and reforestation with local schools, and supported coastal clean-ups at Remis Beach alongside UiTM and the Selangor Department of Environment.
We also proactively conduct environmental initiatives workshop and talks in collaboration with local charities and schools, aiming to inspire and educate the next generation about the importance of eco-friendly practices. For example, we have joined electronic waste collection and recycling initiatives with community partners, delivering educational talks and activities, including during World Environment Day 2024 to raise awareness about e-waste management among students and the wider community.
Every step towards sustainability makes a difference. At Secret Recipe, we take pride in the progress we have achieved and remain dedicated to advancing our environmental efforts. Our promise is straightforward, we will keep serving delicious food while upholding our responsibility to the environment, one initiative at a time.
To learn more about our CSR and green initiatives, please visit our Green Initiatives page.
Amira Nabilah is the Marketing Editor at Secret Recipe. She specializes in F&B content strategy, creating SEO-friendly stories that drive brand engagement for Malaysia’s premier lifestyle café chain.
