A revitalised plan to improve consumer access to organic produce and promote growth in the organic sector was launched this week by Defra and immediately welcomed by growers.
Organic Action Plan - Two Years On was unveiled by Defra junior Minister Ben Bradshaw and builds on the 2002 England Organic Action Plan.
NFU organics spokesman Peter Hall said: "We're pleased the Organic Action Plan has been rejuvenated. The previous plan achieved a number of key aims including significantly increasing the level of British organic produce in the shops but it's now time to re-double our efforts."
The NFU has identified three areas addressed in the new OAP as future priorities. "We need to ensure the sustainable food procurement initiative delivers increased purchasing of organic food, that producers capitalise on the strengths of local organic supply and that we make sure organic food is a viable choice for all consumers," said Hall. "The publication of the document is a positive step in exploring ways in which the organic market can grow into the future."
