Cranswick’s chairman, Tim Smith CBE has joined leading figures across the food industry to advise the Government on a national food strategy and restore pride in British food.
The Food Strategy Advisory Board represents the next step in the government's commitment to develop a comprehensive food strategy that backs British food and boosts the economy as part of the Plan for Change.
The cross-government food strategy will restore pride in British food by ensuring a food system that backs British produce, grows the economy, feeds the nation, nourishes individuals and protects the planet, now and in the future.
The Food Strategy Advisory Board (FSAB) brings together senior leaders from across the food system, representing a wealth of experience and expertise to advise on a clear vision and framework for change, as part of the Government's Plan for Change.
Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner MP, who will act as Chair, said “Our food and farming sectors are the corner stone of our national identity and economy. We celebrate the great work that farmers, growers, processors, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers do across the country that puts delicious food on our tables.
“However, unhealthy diets are driving skyrocketing obesity rates, food security is under pressure from climate change and the way our supply chain works means some farmers are struggling to make a profit.
“By bringing together expertise from across the food chain, this new Advisory Board will help us build a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for everyone. I look forward to chairing these vital discussions and working together to deliver meaningful change."
On joining the Board, Tim Smith commented, “For a long time now we’ve had the benefit of a world class food and drink sector in the UK. We are supported by many thousands of hard working folks who turn up every day to produce our food. As we contemplate how best to feed the nation and facing into unparalleled challenges it’s going to be our opportunity to find ways to devise a system, fair for all, which produces food which is healthy, sustainable and affordable. Reports and recommendations might be the start but we need action to swiftly follow deliberation. Mobilising the established highly competent Food Sector Council to help deliver those plans is just one way to get things done”
Alongside the Board’s work, insights provided by the Food and Drink Sector Council, as well as regular engagement with trade bodies such as the National Farmers Union, Food and Drink Federation, UK Hospitality, and British Retail Consortium will facilitate a clear vision for a comprehensive food strategy. The FSAB is the first step in a wider engagement strategy which will continue to ensure and demonstrate the joined-up and system-wide approach for the food system, including roundtables with key academics, and planned citizen engagement sessions.