The population of the United Kingdom wants clear changes in the food system, according to the results of a recent two-year survey by the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission (FFCC) called ‘The Food Conversation’. Hundreds of citizens took part in the largest public consultation on food in the country’s history, and the resulting Citizen Mandate for Change document sends a clear message to decision-makers.
According to respondents, it is essential to develop a system that ensures access to healthy, safe and sustainably produced food for all. Participants believe that the current model does not adequately serve either consumers or producers: while many farmers earn minimal incomes, large companies make significant profits.
The survey placed particular emphasis on:
- protecting vulnerable social groups,
- reducing unhealthy foods and manipulative marketing,
- and addressing the environmental and health impacts of food production (Public Sector Catering).