By John Ostapkovich

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Two Philadelphia-based firms are on this year’s list of the most ethical companies in the world.

Aramark, based in Center City, and SCA, with its US headquarters in the Cira Center, are both on the list put out by Ethisphere this year. A record 145 companies are being recognized for going above and beyond legal minimums for their conduct.

“Ethisphere does quite a bit of research and scrutiny on companies for you to be included on this list,” SCA vice-president Amy Bellcourt says ethical behavior is part of the firm’s DNA, but now customers want answers too.

“What’s the company like that makes something? Are they making good choices? Are they getting their raw materials from ethical sources? Are they making sure they’re not buying things from other companies that maybe are not following fair labor practices? Are they acting in a sustainable way?”

Aramark says ethical behavior is core to its corporate culture and its president says he’s grateful employees embrace that ideal to the benefit of customers. Other firms on the list include Starbucks, Target and Waste Management.