British growers are calling on health secretaries to place homemade fruits and vegetables at the heart of the English health revolution, or risk derailing the government’s 10-year health plan before it begins.
In a letter to Wes Street, a leading horticultural representative warned that key support for UK fruit and vegetable production will expire this year, keeping alternatives out of sight.
Growers in the EU, Scotland and Welsh continue to receive important funds, but the British people remain when the government aims to “make healthy choices an easy choice.”
Martin Emmett, NFU horticulture and potato board chair, highlighted the urgent need for long-term investments in domestic horticulture to support both public health and food security.
“The government has pledged and is also a central part of the government’s food strategy, so in order to “make healthy choices an easy choice,” the UK needs to ensure a healthy supply of fresh produce at a reliable and affordable price.
“UK growers create world-leading standards and growing food domestically is key to helping the next generation understand where their food comes from.
“We’re only grown 17% of the fruit and 53% of the vegetables we eat. That’s a huge missed opportunity.”
This letter also highlights the worrying cutting between the child and their food. A recent study shows that one in ten children believe that carrots come from supermarkets rather than from the ground.
Growers argue that government health goals cannot be achieved without a thriving horticulture sector.
However, the industry continues to face economic shocks, planning restrictions, supply chain challenges and climate pressures. All of this undermines trust and investment.
“Our horticultural growth strategy lays the foundation for success. We are ready to grow more, produce more and help turn the tide into diet-related illnesses. But we need government support to do so,” Emmett added.
“We urge the Health Secretary to work closely with Defra and industry leaders to unlock the possibilities of UK horticulture and help the government realize its vision for healthier England.”
The letter has been co-signed by seniors from the horticultural industry throughout the world, including representatives of British apples and pears, British fruits, tomatoes, carrots and asparagus.
Together, they represent sectors ready to expand and offer both public health and food sustainability.
