Luke Neve, North of England Regional Coordinator for Better Food Traders, reflects on the Launch of the DEFRA Food Strategy in Bradford.
On Tuesday this week I was in Bradford to witness the launch of the UK Government’s Good Food Strategy for England. The presentation took place at Darley Street Market, which having just opened its doors to the public is a fresh start for the city’s food scene, and a symbol of renewal and local pride. Minister for Food Security Daniel Zeichner used this lively backdrop to announce his vision for a fairer, healthier, more sustainable food system – one where everyone, no matter their income or postcode, can access good food.
At Better Food Traders, we welcome the UK Government’s new Good Food Strategy as a long-overdue signal that the food system needs to play a central role in improving our environment, economy, culture, and public health. The emphasis on British food pride and support for our farmers, producers and workers is heartening and echoes the values we champion ourselves. We particularly welcome acknowledgement of The Invisibility of Nature, the need for Good Growth, and Vibrant Food Cultures in the policy paper.
The strategy paints a compelling vision of a food system that nourishes communities. But it is important to recognise that the current system is broken for too many people. Healthy food is out of reach for low-income families, small-scale producers face mounting barriers, and the climate and nature crises are intensifying. Its ten priority outcomes offer a broad framework, but delivery will require joined-up thinking, investment in small and medium food enterprises, and support for truly regenerative farming practices, not just industrial agriculture with a green badge.
Better Food Traders stands ready to help build this better system. Our network, which supports sustainable, independent food businesses, already delivers much of what this strategy aspires to: nutritious, affordable, British-grown food rooted in communities. We urge the government to back organisations like ours and our members, which are working to shorten supply chains, pay fair prices to suppliers, and put people and planet first.
This new food strategy has the potential to be a turning point. But it must move beyond celebration to transformation. If we are serious about making good food the norm, not the exception, then the hard work starts now and it must include everyone who’s been shut out of the current system.
We were lucky to be joined by a number of Northern BFT Member Attendees who shared their thoughts on the day below:
Moya Sketchley, from BFT Member Barra Organics said “After a tough few years navigating the combined pressures of Brexit, COVID, and rising costs, it’s encouraging to see independent businesses – especially those in organic retail and agroecological food growing – finally being recognised. What we need now is targeted, practical support that reflects the real value these businesses bring: healthier communities, meaningful work, resilient supply chains, and a more sustainable future. As ever, the devil will be in the detail – but the intention is welcome.”
Jannine McMahon, from BFT member Moss Lane Farm & Sons said “The leadership shown by Bradford City Council in backing local food initiatives was incredibly inspiring. As someone representing Moss Lane Farm in Salford, I left with renewed hope for what’s possible in our own communities. Hearing the Minister outline the vision for a Good Food Cycle, one that champions healthier diets, food security and local producers strongly aligned with what we aspire to bring into Greater Manchester.”
Jenny Slaughter, from BFT member Pennine Cropshare “Pennine Cropshare has found that produce from our local growers is far fresher and better quality than the same product from wholesalers. Particularly during recent hot weather. We try to support our growers by providing an easy route to market, but we are aware of significant barriers impeding progress including access to land and planning requirements for Polytunnels. I was interested to know if these issues were on the government’s agenda.”
To read the full Good Food Strategy click here, and the government’s press release is here.