Marks & Spencer has launched an upgraded version of its Field to Fork code of practice, first developed in 2003.
Designed to enhance both the M&S brand and customer assurance of food safety, the long-term Field to Fork strategy also included the aims of reducing pesticide use and encourages growers to adopt environment-friendly practices.
The latest version came into effect on Thursday, and will now apply to all fruit, salads and vegetables used as ingredients in M&S food.
“The new version takes into account changes in customer expectations, new scientific understanding, feedback from growers and the introduction of our own Field to Fork database to manage auditing,” Hugh Mowat, senior technologist, told freshinfo.
“It also covers labour standards, sustainable sourcing and contains the M&S Farm Environment standard which has been written in partnership with LEAF.”
Mowat added that the upgrade has been achieved through a close working relationship with the retailer’s worldwide network of fresh produce growers. In 2003, M&S took 60 chemicals off its accepted list - a further 10, previously identified in its “Amber List”, have now been removed. “Our decision was supported by the practical approach we took with growers, giving them time to come up with alternatives,” Mowat said.
M&S has set up a pesticide residue experts network, incorporating a worldwide panel of academics and working growers into what Mowat calls a “pump-priming exercise”.
Rather than a repetition of the Assured Produce Scheme or its equivalents throughout the world, Mowat said Field to Fork takes food-safety demands a stage further, recognising the fast-changing trends and demands of customers.
He likens it to an insurance scheme for all parties. “By helping our producers and ourselves, we are better informed, which will allow us all to maintain our long-term partnerships for the benefit of customers.”
M&S will host a suppliers’ conference this summer to explain the changes in detail.
No comments yet