Love British Food hosts 10th farm visit for public sector caterers

The farm walk, guided by former GP and now nature-friendly regenerative farmer Dr Johnny Wake, brought together 20 caterers for a day of ‘transformative’ learning and collaboration both out in the field and during a working lunch where practical ideas were exchanged. 

There were representatives from across the NHS, education including The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO), advisory bodies, local authorities, food service organisations and the National Association of Care Catering (NACC).

Speaking about the visit, Love British Food founder Alexia Robinson said: "As our cohort of change makers continues to grow, so too does their collective impact. The programme provides a vital opportunity to see the work that British farmers put into producing food. Every participant goes away understanding the connection between how food is grown and its nutritional value.

“All while learning about how food produced in harmony with nature can help them meet their sustainability targets and improve health outcomes. From the positive feedback I’ve received, our changemakers left feeling inspired, supported, and enabled to make real, tangible differences by introducing more British-grown ingredients onto their menus.”

Nottingham County Council’s County Enterprise Foods shared their story about the radical eighteen-month transition to sourcing 100% fresh, local produce including rabbit and venison. Milton Keynes University Hospital highlighted how it had saved 1-2% through using a local butcher - overcoming the myth that British costs more.

Neel Radia, who attended as chair of NACC, added: “Change needs to be accessible and actionable. Today has shown how much positive impact you can have through small but meaningful changes.”

Learn more about Love British Food’s farm visit training programme here: Farm Visits for Caterers