Damage to reputation is the biggest risk to the food and drink sector, including fresh produce companies. In a recent survey carried out by insurer Aon, 67 per cent of companies said that they had plans to tackle damage to their reputation, but the company is warning that these plans need to be tested regularly, especially for what it claims are emerging threats in 2008 - the biofuels crisis and food terrorism.

Last year, product recalls because of suspected salmonella affected the prepared salads sector, and Aon claims this has knocked consumer confidence. “But, worryingly, a third of companies in the food and drink sector have no plans to protect their reputation,” said Flo Frankland, head of Aon’s food and drink sector group. “Proactive planning will also create opportunities to enhance brand and reputation.”

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