King Edwards Roast Potatoes

Roast potatoes are a Christmas dinner staple

The NFU has urged shoppers to Back British Farming during the Christmas period in a series of mini-spotlights on various seasonal British products.

Aiming to show how consumers can support British farming beyond the traditional roast, the campaign has highlighted how to buy a British Christmas tree and poinsettia plants, amid a wider message to look out for British products.

The farming union flagged up the Red Tractor logo as an easy way to spot British produce, and pointed out that the UK grows many festive staples such as potatoes and other vegetables.

“When shopping in retail stores we are encouraging consumers to get behind our campaign to support British farming,” said Minette Batters, NFU deputy president.

“One of the easiest ways this can be achieved is in buying produce displaying the Red Tractor logo, which also provides a guarantee of traceability, environmental protection, food safety and hygiene and welfare standards.

“The festive season is a time when British produce such as roast potatoes, pigs in blankets and traditional turkey are treasured. And while Christmas dinner is the cornerstone of Christmas Day, British agriculture has a far wider part to play this time of year with the provision of British trees, plants and beers, to name but a few.”

The Back British Farming NFU website provides recipes and activities for children, as well as an interactive ‘find your turkey’ service and tips on how to dispose of Christmas trees.

One of the mini-spotlights in the run up to Christmas has been on the 26-year-old British-grown Nordman Fir outside 10 Downing Street, and advice on picking the perfect poinsettia.