Grocers welcome government 10-point Food Strategy plan

The report was published today by Defra, who set out 10 outcomes they want to see targeted by the UK food and drink industry as part of its new food strategy.

The framework was drawn up following conversations with industry leaders, ministers and charities and will include demands for the industry to make healthy food easier to afford and to take further action to tackle the growing obesity crisis.

Sainsbury’s chief executive Simon Roberts, who was the only retail leader directly consulted as part of drawing up the plan, said the government’s Good Food Cycle was a “positive step” for UK food security.

“Britain’s food system should be a powerhouse of economic growth, innovation and job creation, but in the face of ongoing and significant challenges, we need to work with bold ambition, commitment and focus to secure its future.

“The government’s Good Food Cycle is a positive step towards building a more resilient food system and that ensures food in the UK is consistently healthier, more sustainable and more accessible to all for generations to come.

“The real work starts now. To unlock growth and build a UK food system that works for everyone, we will need to work with pace, passion and focus across government and industry to seize this opportunity.”

Aldi UK chief executive Giles Hurley said: “As one of the biggest supporters of British produce, we know how important it is to build resilient supply chains that deliver healthy, affordable food for our customers – both now and in the future.

“We welcome the focus and direction of today’s Good Food Cycle framework and look forward to working together to ensure the security of the UK’s food system”.

10-point plan

Alongside requirements of grocers and food producers, the new plan also includes government promises to do more to tackle food resilience and invest in the UK food sector – both domestically and supporting international exports.

The outcomes set out in the report are:

• An improved food environment that supports healthier and more environmentally sustainable food sales
• Access for all to safe, affordable, healthy, convenient and appealing food options
• Conditions for the food sector to thrive and grow sustainably, including investment in innovation and productivity, and fairer more transparent supply chains
• Food sector attracts talent and develops skilled workforce in every region
• Food supply is environmentally sustainable with high animal welfare standards, and waste is reduced
• Trade supports environmentally sustainable growth, upholds British standards and expands export opportunities
• Resilient domestic production for a secure supply of healthier food
• Greater preparedness for supply chain shocks, disruption, and impacts of chronic risks
• Celebrated and valued UK, regional and local food cultures
• People are more connected to their local food systems, and have the confidence, knowledge and skills to cook and eat healthily

Minister for food security Daniel Zeichner, said: “Food security is national security – we need a resilient food system that can weather any storm while ensuring families across the country can access affordable, healthy food.

“The Good Food Cycle represents a major milestone. We are actively defining the outcomes we want from our food system to deliver a whole system change that will help the amazing businesses that feed our nation to grow and thrive, which means more jobs and stronger local economies, while making it easier for families to eat and feel better.

“This isn’t just about what’s on our plates today, it’s about building a stronger food system for generations to come, supporting economic growth, health and opportunity as part of our Plan for Change.”

Director of food and sustainability at the BRC Andrew Opie said: “Retailers welcome the ambition and direction of the framework. They know customers want more British food, sustainably produced and with clear healthy choices; something we believe this approach can help to deliver.”