The Future of Food Chains

UNDERSTANDING THE CURRENT FOOD CHAIN IN THE UK

DIET AND THE UK AGRI-FOOD SECTOR

The agri-food sector in the United Kingdom accounts for approximately 6% of national GVA and is comparable to the Education and Construction sectors in terms of its contribution to the economy. It also employs over 4 million people, almost double of that of the construction sector.

The UK consumer diet has undergone rapid transformation over the last 30 years, transitioning away from a carbohydrate and root vegetable heavy diet, towards a more global and diverse food offering. Whilst the types of foods and influences has diversified markedly, the food groups being utilized has in some places narrowed, favouring key ingredients such as wheat, maize, and grain. As a result, the UK is heavily reliant on imports for its supply of food. During 2022, the UK recorded a balance of food trade deficit of £32.9 billion. During 2022, 68% of total food imports were derived from its 10 key trade partners, and over 30% alone was imported from Netherlands, France, and Ireland.

2022 FOOD IMPORTS BY ORIGIN AND TYPE

10000

8000

6000

4000

2000

0

Netherlands

France

Ireland

Belgium

Spain

Italy

Germany

United States Denmark Poland

Meat & meat preparation

Dairy products & eggs

Fish & shellfish

Cereals

Vegetables & fruit

Other

Source: ONS 2023

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FUTURE OF FOOD CHAIN |