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Government sets out 21st century challenges for food in the UK

Tuesday 08 July 2008

There is no doubt about the importance of the report and it has already attracted major headlines about food pricing and wastage.

 

The report is detailed with 144 pages of comment, recommendations and case studies.

What is great news for the markets industry is that the report highlights the importance of markets in tackling food issues.

 

At paragraph 56 reference is made to the importance of street markets with the statement that “street markets can be an important source of affordable good quality food…” While acknowledging some of the challenges currently facing many markets the report goes on to say that “the success of farmers and specialized markets and revitalised large city centre markets provide models for greater engagement with fresh, affordable food.

 

Encouragement is given to local authorities to look at the look at investing in and supporting markets acknowledging that the prices at markets are often cheaper than supermarkets.

The report goes into much greater detail and details can be found on the Cabinet Office website www.cabinetoffice.com.

 

The report also highlights a case study covering Manchester Community Food Market- Northenden which is a new food market, established in October 2007 as a pilot, catering for people on all incomes and around thirty stalls provide a wide range of foods including cheese, fresh fruit and vegetables, bread and bakery products.

 

The contribution of Krys Zasada, Nabma’s Policy Manager, must be mentioned in achieving this very important recognition for the benefit of all the market industry.