Call for evidence open for The National Food Strategy

In June, the government announced that Henry Dimbleby, co-founder of restaurant chain Leon, had been appointed to lead the first major review of the UK food system in nearly 75 years.

Food and drink manufacturers are being urged to have their say on the future of the industry as part of the Government’s forthcoming National Food Strategy.

The aim of the review is to ensure that the food industry is fit for the future, supports growth, enhances the environment and is resilient to the challenges posed by climate change. It will look at what is working well already and the role of new technology to revolutionise the UK’s food supply – from innovations such as vertical farming and robotics, to carbon neutral manufacturing and crops that tackle climate change.

What is the Call for Evidence?

“We want to hear from anyone with an interest in the future of our food system. We want to hear what is working. From government policies to simple practical things that make a difference in your community or your business. And we want you to send us the evidence that supports your ideas and suggestions.

These might be things that work well, here or abroad, and that could scaled up or used differently. Or they might be completely new ideas: things that haven’t been tried yet at scale, but which you think have the potential to improve the system. You may have ideas that help citizens make informed decisions about the food they eat, or which increase access and affordability of high-quality food; ideas that make food production more environmentally sustainable, that create a flourishing countryside rich in wildlife; ideas that help farming, fishing and food businesses and communities thrive, benefitting employees and the wider community; that promote the highest standards of animal health and welfare; or that could put England at the forefront of innovation and reshape our food system in the coming years.”