UK relies on heat-stressed countries for fruit and veg it could grow itself – report
Summary
The UK depends heavily on imported fruits and vegetables from countries that face serious climate problems. This makes the UK vulnerable to food price increases and supply issues. A report says the UK could grow more of its own food if it supports farmers to handle changing weather.Key Facts
- The UK imports about 40% of all its food, including 80% of its fruit and 47% of its vegetables.
- Many countries supplying the UK with food are highly vulnerable to climate change effects like drought and heat.
- The UK has one of the lowest food self-sufficiency levels among large Western European nations.
- The UK experienced five record heatwaves this year, causing damage to crops and reducing domestic produce.
- Some popular fruits like apples and strawberries can grow well in the UK, but less than 40% of the demand is met domestically for most.
- The UK could grow more vegetables such as tomatoes, mushrooms, and peppers, which currently rely heavily on imports.
- Rising energy costs, labor shortages, and changes to farming subsidies since Brexit are making it harder for UK growers to produce more food.
- Food groups urge the government to support farmers with better policies, affordable energy, and access to seasonal workers to increase local food production.
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