With the current challenging situation the country is facing, the key themes for the event are affordability and shortening supply chains. The British food supply chain employs 4.3 million people & generates over £120 billion of added value for the economy each year.
The British food and drink manufacturing contributes more to the economy than all other manufacturing sectors, including automotive and aerospace combined.
Alexia Robinson, founder of Love British Food, commented: “This fortnight is a celebration of British produce, but we have decided to use it as a platform for lasting positive change which can hopefully help families navigate what will undoubtedly be a difficult winter.
“Whether this is pushing Government to massively extend eligibility of free school meals to all children, or highlighting how buying British/seasonally can keep pounds in pockets. We will be focusing on addressing food poverty and the cost-of-living crisis through our work with schools. All of whom have been encouraged to run nutritious menus packed with seasonal food during the fortnight.
“Nobody can predict how the turbulent global situation will develop, but we can all play our part to help boost the UK’s food security. That means keeping supply chains as short as possible, benefitting both your local economy and also helping to protect the environment. The benefits of this are obvious with our work to set up robust local supply chains for hospital caterers in deeply uncertain times - progress made, but far more to do.
“We’re reaching out now to give you plenty of time to prepare - engage with a local school, feature a small business or even run on a feature on why buying British is best. Use www.lovebritishfood.co.uk as a resource base, packed with case studies and useful information. We Love British Food, and we look forward to celebrating the biggest and best British Food Fortnight with you.”