A new commitment to British food and farming was unveiled last week at the University of Warwick during the prestigious TUCO Competitions event.
The Love British Food Pledge has been co-created by Tim Radcliffe, Net Zero Programme Manager at NHS England and Alexia Robinson, Founder of Love British Food. It calls on industry leaders, influencers and media to publicly pledge their support for homegrown food and farming.
At the heart of the launch is a Pledge Board, inviting attendees at any featured event to physically sign their commitment to the principles of the Pledge.
The Pledge outlines five core commitments:
Champion British produce
• Prioritise the sourcing, supply and promotion of British-grown and British-made food wherever possible
• Highlight the quality, sustainability and heritage of British produce in all aspects of our work.
Support British farmers, producers and manufacturers
• Build strong, fair and transparent relationships with British farmers, growers, producers and manufacturers
• Encourage investment in British agriculture by promoting its importance to local economies and communities.
Promote sustainability and seasonality
• Advocate for sustainable farming and production practices that protect our countryside and environment
• Celebrate the seasonality of British food, reducing food miles and minimising waste.
Inspire consumers to choose British
• Educate and inspire customers and communities about the benefits of choosing British food
• Create opportunities to showcase the diversity and excellence of British food and drink through menus, events and campaigns.
Work together for a stronger future
• Collaborate with like-minded organisations and businesses to strengthen British food’s presence locally and globally
• Advocate for policies that support the growth and success of British agriculture and food production.
Alexia Robinson says: “British food is the backbone of our nation’s health, economy and identity. This Pledge gives people across our industry a powerful way to show their support and drive real change in sourcing, sustainability and education,”
Tim Radcliffe adds: “We believe this initiative will energise the sector and create a ripple effect - encouraging public services, retailers and the wider food industry to source British and support our farmers.”
Following its launch at TUCO, the Love British Food Pledge will feature at major sector events throughout the year, including the Hospital Caterers Association and National Association of Care Caterers’ annual events.
This campaign comes at a pivotal time for British food production, as consumers and caterers alike demand greater transparency, sustainability and local provenance in their food choices.
Pictured signing the pledge: Stuart Palmer, Edinburgh University
