The volume of imports jeopardizes food independence

A report presented to the Parliament alerts on the rate of food self-sufficiency. This ratio measures the percentage of food produced locally to the imports. The self-sufficiency rate in the UK was 87% in the 1990s and dropped to 68% in 2012.

The rate is even worse for fruits and vegetables according to the report: 12% for fruits and 58% for vegetables. In 2012 the country imported for 8 billion pounds, even in high season of local products: 50 000 tons of potatoes and 20,000 tons of broccoli and cabbage were purchased in April abroad.

The situation is considered reckless, depending on imports that may fluctuate at any time due to climate change or changes in global demand. The Environment Secretary Owen Paterson calls for expansion of cultivation of fruits and vegetables, which could stimulate the economy while helping the environment. Efforts can be made to lengthen growing period and therefore production with multiplication of large greenhouse complexes.

source : independent co uk