UK relies on heat-stressed countries for fruit and veg it could grow itself
Food Foundation sounds alarm over supply risks and price shocks as about 40% of Britain’s food is imported
TL;DR
- The UK is vulnerable to food price shocks due to its reliance on imports of fruits and vegetables from countries exposed to the climate crisis.
- About 40% of the UK's food is imported, including 80% of its fruit and 47% of its vegetables, a higher rate than many other western European countries.
- Many of the countries supplying the UK with staple foods are rated as moderately to severely vulnerable to climate breakdown, according to a Food Foundation report.
- Despite potential for domestic growth, the UK produces less than 40% of its consumption for four of its five most purchased fruits (apples, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pears).
- The UK could increase domestic production of popular vegetables like tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, cucumbers, onions, broccoli, and green beans, where only about half are currently produced domestically.
- The Food Foundation calls for government investment in helping British farmers adapt to climate change to increase domestic production and ensure access to affordable, nutritious food.
- Horticulture businesses face challenges including rising energy costs, labor shortages, poor weather, and changes to post-Brexit subsidies.
- Growers require government policy certainty regarding the seasonal workers scheme, water access, planning regulations, competitively priced energy, and market certainty with long-term agreements and profitable returns.