NEW YORK — Creating value for shareholders, customers, consumers and society at large is at the backbone of a new global business strategy report issued May 21 by Nestle S.A.

The report, “Creating Shared Value,” describes efforts under way within Nestle’s five U.S. operating companies — Nestle USA, Nestle Waters North America, Nestle Purina PetCare Co., Nestle Nutrition and Nestle Professional — in the areas of nutrition, water and rural development.

“‘Creating Shared Value is at the heart of Nestle’s global business strategy,” said Heidi Paul, vice-president of corporate affairs for Nestle Waters North America. “It’s based on a belief that for our businesses to prosper in the long term, we must create value for our shareholders, customers, consumers and society at large.

“We have the privilege of being the largest market of the world’s largest food and beverage company. With that privilege comes an opportunity — and a responsibility — to engage our consumers and the communities where we do business. ‘Creating Shared Value’ is that offering and is fundamental to our continued success.”

In the area of nutrition, Nestle said in the report that it is striving to improve the nutritional profile of its products by reducing or removing salt, sugar and trans fat, and by adding nutritious ingredients such as vegetables and whole grains. The company also offers on-package easy-to-understand information, such as Gerber’s Developmental Stage-Based Milestone Symbols and the Nestle Nutritional Compass.

Nestle also said it is conducting business in an environmentally responsible way. Over the past five years, Nestle said its Nestle Waters North America company has reduced water consumption in its factories by 2.2% while product volume has increased by 27%. The company also now offers a recyclable Eco-Shape 0.5-liter bottle that contains 35% less plastic than the same size bottle produced four years ago.

In the area of rural development, Nestle said in the report it has helped reduce hunger by delivering more than 123 million lbs of food and beverages to 162 local food banks over the past 20 years as part of its long-term relationship with Feeding America. The company also has helped support disaster-relief efforts through the American Red Cross by donating more than $1 million in bottled water and food products as well as $80,000 in cash to help Haiti in the earthquake aftermath.

For the full report, visit www.Nestleusa.com.