The National Food Strategy, led by Henry Dimbleby, will investigate the entire food chain from ‘farm to fork.’
UKHospitality has urged the Government to ensure the strategy capitalises on the work already being done by the hospitality sector and avoids unnecessary barriers to growth
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “A positive and effective National Food Strategy is in everyone’s best interests. For policy-makers looking to promote healthier attitudes towards food, consumers trying to do the same for themselves and their families, and the businesses that provide it.
"Food businesses play a vital role in the relationship between consumers and food, which means the hospitality sector is integral.
“The hospitality sector has an important part to play but we can only achieve our full potential if we have the right support from the Government. We share the Government’s aims of ensuring that people are eating good quality, healthy food and that the food and hospitality industries are thriving and innovative.
“A positive National Food Strategy would touch upon many aspects of regulation and business from sustainability and quality to skills and training. We need an all-inclusive approach that supports businesses every step of the way from farm to fork and supports hospitality businesses to deliver that vision, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure the new Strategy makes this happen.”
In its submission to DEFRA’s call for evidence, UKHospitality has highlighted the important role that hospitality businesses can help achieve the Government’s aims if they have support, including:
- A positive regulatory regime
- Investment in skills and training to promote careers in hospitality
- Food and quality sustainability
- Innovation and productivity