Food for the future
The UK’s first food security assessment was launched today as part of a package of material on the future of our food system.
The material discusses issues ranging from how we can create a sustainable food system locally and globally, to the challenges of rising global demand for food and the ways in which food contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Speaking at the launch today, Environment Secretary Hilary Benn emphasised that the UK will need to change the way food is produced and processed so that we continue to enjoy healthy, affordable food in the years ahead.
He said: ‘Our food strategy will need to cover all aspects of our food – production, processing, distribution, retail, consumption and disposal. And that includes the impact on our health, on the environment and future productivity, on how we deal with food waste.’
The package also includes an interactive tool called ‘Food 2030’, which will spark discussion and debate about the future of food, as well as a progress update on the objectives set out in the ‘Food Matters’ report, published by the Cabinet Office in 2008.
In addition, a consultation has been launched on how best to measure our success in creating a sustainable food system, through indicators such as healthy and informed consumers, and skills and innovation.
The food strategy for the future will be published later this year, drawing on responses to the consultation.
Further information
Page last modified: 10 August 2009
Page published: 10 August 2009