The UK government is being urged to double the land dedicated to fruit and vegetable cultivation in response to escalating concerns about food security and sustainability.
An open letter, co-ordianted by the Soil Association, warns that if the current decline in British fruit and vegetables continues, the UK will “face further disaster” for supermarket shelves, health and the environment.
A recent report has highlighted vulnerabilities in the current agricultural framework, particularly in the context of global geopolitical tensions and climate change.
At present, the UK imports a significant portion of its fresh produce, making it susceptible to disruptions in international supply chains. Increasing domestic farmland is intended to mitigate these risks by fostering a more self-sufficient and resilient food supply system. This strategy is seen as crucial for reducing reliance on imports and enhancing the country's resilience to external shocks.
Experts argue that expanding the area for growing fruit and vegetables will not only improve food security but also provide environmental benefits. Diverse cropping can enhance soil health, increase biodiversity, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with importing produce.
Furthermore, this initiative is expected to yield positive socio-economic impacts. Increased farming activity is anticipated to create jobs and support rural economies, offering stability to agricultural communities. Prioritising locally grown produce ensures fresher, higher-quality food for the population.
The sector, however, faces ongoing challenges, particularly regarding seasonal labour shortages and the need for innovation and automation to boost productivity. The government has announced measures to support farmers, including extending the seasonal visa route and investing in automation technologies to lessen reliance on migrant labour.
The letter to Sir Keir Starmer says that more land is currently used to play golf than to produce fruit and vegetables.
It reads: “Across the country, growers of all scales are working tirelessly to achieve a simple but vital mission: to nourish people with good food.
“But the sector faces devastating decline. Nearly half of our growers fear for the survival of their businesses and fruit and vegetable consumption in the UK is at the lowest level in half a century. Less than a third of us eat our five-a-day.
“What’s more, the produce that does reach us is too often imported from countries that are increasingly impacted by extreme weather. Almost half of our vegetables and more than 80% of our fruit is imported. This cannot go on. We urgently need more – not less – home-grown fruit and veg, or we face further disaster for supermarket shelves, our health, and the environment.”
The Soil Association is also asking anyone who agrees with the letter to sign a pledge on the charity’s website to say they support homegrown fruit and vegetables.
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