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Farming
Keep it Local
British shoppers are trying to do the right thing
Concern for the environment and interest in ethical consumerism has been two of the major talking points across the globe in 2007.
A recent survey published by Nielsen “ Britain 's Ethical Shopper: Which way now?” suggests that food shoppers are becoming more concerned about green issues. There has been quite a marked and positive shift in the last year. The poll which had responses from more than 5000 shoppers shows that 57% actively try to buy local products – up from 48% six months earlier. Some 46% said that it was worth paying extra for ethically produced goods or those seen as kind to the environment.
Older consumers and those from higher socio-economic households are the most likely to claim that they actively try to buy local products – these groups may have a closer sense of affinity within the area in which they live and their greater economic means. The South West, Northern Scotland, Wales and the West have a greater desire to buy local produce than more urban regions.
During 2007 we have seen many retailers implement environmentally friendly initiatives and increase their support of the local community that is important to shoppers. It found that more people would change to another retailer for their grocery shopping if they thought that retailer had more locally produced products than if the alternative retailer had more recycling packaging and bags.
The attitudes expressed as part of this survey indicate that overall there is a real desire by the British shopper to “do the right thing” when making their shopping and product choices.
The results of this survey is good news coming at a time when other research shows that the total distance of all food journeys in British urban areas rose by 31% between 1992-2006 and that the amount of “British – made” food consumed in the UK has decreased from 71% in 1988 to 58% in 2006
10 Good Reasons to eat Food From British Farms
- You will be cutting down on your food miles. Transportation of food clutters our roads and railways. This uses up important fuel and increases pollution. Sourcing your food locally helps minimise the problems food miles generate.
- You will be buying a safe traceable products – British food is produced to very high standards of safety and wholesomeness. The process is regulated and checked from field to plate.
- You will be supporting some great British traditions – from English strawberries to Scotch whisky to Welsh lamb to Cornish clotted cream.
- You will be supporting your local rural economy – agricultural businesses are key parts of the local economy.
- You will be supporting small family businesses – in Great Britain we have lost nearly 50% of family farms in the last 40 years. By supporting British farmers with your custom you will be doing your bit to reverse this regrettable decline.
- You will be encouraging high animal welfare standards such as free range hens and a ban on hormones.
- Eat the view! You will help to maintain the beautiful British landscape that British Farmers maintain.
- Shop local, shop British – by shopping at a local farm shop or farmers market you will be reducing your food miles and obtaining fresh produce as well.
- The farmer gives you good value for money – of an average basket of food costing £37 the farmer receives just £13.
- Local food tastes good!!!
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