Low income consumers were invited to participatory workshops to talk about their views on the future of food and farming. The participants were initially reticent but soon, stimulated by the discussion, strong views emerged.
Despite being on low incomes, their concerns ranged far beyond ensuring affordable food was available to them. Indeed, they cared deeply about the food they eat and how it is produced. Their recommendations included: calls for greater trust and dialogue within the food chain; for food safety issues to be addressed; for better information and labelling; for more encouragement for natural' farming methods; and for better means to maintain the countryside and rural life. These views tie in with what we know consumers across the board want.
They want quality, wholesome foods that are affordable and produced with regard for the environment. Agricultural policy is out of step with these demands. If this is to be rectified, policymakers will need to listen to consumers and respond to their demands.
Our workshop participants valued the opportunity to be consulted, yet there was a deep scepticism that policymakers would take notice. People felt their voices would be drowned out by more powerful players, such as supermarkets and agribusiness. This is an important lesson. Unless consumers feel they are being listened to, and taken notice of, their confidence in the food and farming industry is unlikely to be restored.
This is the moment for radical change in agricultural and food policies. But the change must incorporate the needs and aspirations of low income consumers. As chair of NCC, I want to ensure low income consumers are given a fair hearing.
{{NEWS }}
No comments yet