Support for local producers central to economic survival
National Trust report sets out a ‘charter’ to support local food producers
Supporting local producers is integral to the long-term survival of regional businesses, communities and character, according to the National Trust in a new report.
The National Trust is well known for the conservation work it carries out in its stately homes, nature reserves and coastal habitats. It also manages dozens of historic kitchen gardens, allotments and other growing spaces, many of which give local communities the space to grow their own.
The report, Appetite for change, (PDF 1.85MB) shares the progress the National Trust has made in supporting producers, farm tenants and fishing communities by sourcing sustainably produced, local and seasonal food for its 150 restaurants and cafes across the country.
It also sets out the charity’s ‘charter’ to continue this local food sourcing policy, looking at ways it can ensure the survival of regional character, food heritage, minimise food miles and invest in the local economy, helping it weather the economic pressure currently being experienced. In 2008, the National Trust supported local businesses by contributing over half a million pounds to producers in the region.
Jennifer Forrest, the charity’s local food ‘champion’, said:
'Food plays a vital part in our lives; and with budgets being stretched we believe that buying locally produced food can offer great value, reduce food miles, support the regional economy and what’s more, it tastes so much better.
'Food has become an anonymous commodity and we are committed to inspiring people to think about where and how their food is produced. Around a third of all food bought by consumers in the UK is thrown away each year, most of it before its sell by date; that just seems such a shocking waste.'
Jennifer added:
'Good food has sometimes been marketed as a luxury, with a price to match, often putting people off. By encouraging an interest in traceability we hope people will realise the hidden costs of anonymous, mass produced food – costs to the environment, local economy and to our taste buds.'
This report follows an announcement that the National Trust wants to provide an extra 1000 allotments across the country over the next three years, offering communities the opportunity to experience the pleasure of growing their own.
Miss Forrest concluded
'Let’s not take the food on our plate for granted. We hope this report will plant a seed in people’s minds, encouraging a growth of interest in the benefits of local food.'
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