Work is well under way in several key areas of the strategy and healthier food is one of the challenges high on the agenda, said Sir Don who is delighted with the significant progress on efforts to encourage the purchase of more home-grown food by public bodies such as schools and hospitals.
Assured Food Standards has been given a government grant to help set up an independent, authoritative body for food assurance.
An entry-level scheme promoting environment-friendly farming has also been launched. The four chosen areas for the scheme are Lincolnshire, Berkshire, Durham and Devon and there are over 250 farmers involved across the pilot areas.
Sir Don said: 'I am encouraged by the progress so far. We must invest our time and energy in initiatives that are founded on sound business plans and help improve returns through adding value in local markets or further the relationship between food producers and supermarkets.' However, the organisation is keen to see improvements in the production and processing of healthy food. He said: 'This strategy will only succeed if it is delivered in partnership, and the industry itself – especially at a local level must rise to the challenge.'