The UK is susceptible to food price shocks due to its dependence on fruit and vegetable imports from countries highly exposed to the climate crisis, researchers state. A report from the Food Foundation charity, published today, highlights that the UK relies on nations under significant climate pressure for popular fresh foods.
Britain has experienced five heatwaves, drought, and wildfires this year, which have damaged crops and reduced domestic produce yields. Despite this, the UK has one of the lowest food self-sufficiency ratios among large western European countries, importing approximately 40% of its food. This includes 80% of its fruit and 47% of its vegetables, making its reliance on imported fruit among the highest in Europe.
The Food Foundation's report indicates that 18 of the top 20 countries supplying the UK with healthy staple foods are rated moderately to severely vulnerable to climate breakdown. Anna Taylor, executive director at the Food Foundation, warned that climate breakdown impacts could drive up prices, making nutritious foods less accessible. The charity is urging the government to invest in British farmers to increase domestic production and help them adapt to the changing climate.
Horticulture businesses are reportedly struggling with high energy costs, labour shortages, poor weather, and changes to post-Brexit subsidies. Food producers are calling for these concerns to be addressed in the government's forthcoming horticulture sector growth plan.