Industry

The Government has invested more than £45m in ‘ground-breaking’ technologies to boost Britain’s food security.

From robots carrying out fruit picking, to health monitors for cows and sheep, through to variable irrigation systems to maximise water usage on crops – these grants support the development of wide-range projects and products which will help a large number of farmers. 

These funds will help to strengthen food security, increase farmers’ profits and protect nature as part of the Government’s Plan for Change. 

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has announced that Great British Beef Week (23-30th April) will celebrate the ‘delicious taste’ of British beef and the dedication of farmers who produce it.

This year’s campaign is farmer led, putting the faces behind British beef farming at its heart. The week aims to bring famers’ stories to life to showcase the passion, care and dedication that goes into every cut.

Professor Kevin Morgan of Cardiff University delivered a compelling address at the Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) Forum on the pressing need to reframe food procurement in the public sector.

Drawing from his research into the failed Powys Food Links initiative, which sought to source local food for local hospitals, Professor Morgan identified EU procurement procedures and a lack of metrics for measuring health outcomes as key barriers.

A panel representing the four nations of the UK discussed the challenges and opportunities in developing and retaining catering staff across the NHS during the recent HCA Forum. 

With a focus on developing and retaining staff Duncan O’Neill (England), Deborah McNeil (Northern Ireland), Jayne Jones (Scotland), and Simon Williams (Wales) attempted to shed light on the deep-rooted staffing issues affecting NHS catering services and the collective drive to address them.

Recruitment Woes and Slow Onboarding

Compass Group UK & Ireland has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030, outlining its sustainability journey to the HCA Forum.

Carolyn Ball, director of delivery of Net Zero, and Rees Bramwell, sustainability director, shared insights into the progress and challenges faced since the company made its bold pledge in 2021.

The latest CGA Prestige Foodservice Price Index (FPI) indicates a continued easing of inflationary pressures, with the index remaining relativ