Leaf Marque have called for a united approach to keeping Britain’s supply chain safe at their annual conference.
Over 90 delegates from the food and farming industry gathered for the Leaf Annual Conference in Canary Wharf, to discuss the risks and solutions for delivering a more resilient supply chain.
Broadcaster Tom Heap chaired a panel at the event, warning of the increased complexity in our supply chains, putting food supply at greater risk of contamination and fraud.
Leaf executive chair Caroline Drummond said: “To ensure we optimise the capabilities of our food supply chain now and in the future, we need to ensure that we are sharing knowledge, utilising research and development and working together.
'There is also a need for us, as an industry, to address the issues around consumer trust in the food they buy. This is where food assurance schemes, like LEAF Marque, have a key role to play. As a leading global assurance system, LEAF Marque, recognises and rewards sustainable farming practices through building market and consumer awareness and demonstrating high standards of environmental care. Assurance schemes also empower consumers to make positive changes through their purchasing decisions.”
Minette Batters also spoke at the event saying it is 'critical for the farming sector to demonstrate its value and integrity to the consumer”, in the face of vulnerability to crops and livestock.
Phillip Wynn, Leaf chairman said: “With an estimated 9 billion extra mouths to feed by 2050,the need for us to identify the threats and vulnerabilities in our food and farming sector, and create a solution for these risks, is vital.
'The complexity and integrity of our food supply chain creates a further challenge, however, with new technology and with a united approach, there is no doubt that the farming industry can work together to encourage the change, opportunity and innovation needed to ensure our food chain is strong and resilient for years to come.”
