Boris Johnson urges food businesses to produce healthier dishes for 2012

One in four London businesses sells food and the Mayor wants to use the higher food standards put in place for the 2012 Games to create a lasting legacy for the industry, which generates billions for the capital's economy and employs hundreds of thousands of people. A total of 14 million meals will be served during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, across 40 locations most of which are in London. The London 2012 food standards commit its caterers to use British, seasonal and farm assured foods, sustainably sourced fish and food produced to higher animal welfare standards. In addition, bananas, tea, coffee, chocolate and sugar will be Fairtrade and traditional cheese such as cheddar must be British. Healthier cooking methods, such as grilling and steaming, will be used, and healthier meal options will be available for everyone. The London 2012 commitments show that good food can be achieved whilst still maintaining profit margins. The aim of the initiative, supported by the Mayor, spearheaded by Rosie Boycott, chair of London Food and involving a wide range of organisations including Defra, the London 2012 Games organisers, NHS London and food sustainability and conservation groups, is to use the high profile of the 2012 Games to create a permanent change in the UK catering industry, which will benefit the food and farming industries and consumers. It will also help match businesses that meet these higher food standards, with those looking to buy local, sustainable and good quality food. Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: "Catering for the 2012 Games is a mammoth operation and a lot of hard work has gone into raising the standard of the meals that athletes, workers and spectators will consume. We want this to generate a step change in the commercial food sector, providing a boost for our food industry in terms of investment and jobs." Rosie Boycott, Chair of London Food, said: "The London 2012 Games represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to inspire change through the adoption of good food standards for the ultimate benefit of Londoners and all those visiting our city to enjoy food. This work will create an important legacy which will stimulate the market for better quality food." The food legacy programme has been set up by members of the London Food Board and supported by national food and farming organisations and is now set to work with companies across the capital as well as nationally to provide practical information and encourage them to 'go for gold' in food sourcing, preparation and staff training. It is aimed at businesses and organisations of all sizes. The support for organisations includes links to free, online services to help source food suppliers that meet London 2012 food standards. The food legacy website will detail opportunities that food businesses can benefit from in the lead-up to the Games such as festivals, events training and meet the buyer events benefiting the catering industry.