UK supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons are facing a 'new normal' as the country is warned it is 'sleepwalking into a food crisis' due to extreme weather, inflation, and the ongoing war with Iran. Crops are struggling amid a heatwave, livestock is suffering from heat stress, and wildfires are increasing. Food prices are also being impacted by the United States' conflict with Iran.
Experts Call for Updated National Food Strategy
A group of food experts has written to ministers this week, urging the Labour government to update the national food strategy to account for these risks. The letter warns that the UK must prepare for a future of higher temperatures and more severe weather. Signatories include Mike Barry, former director of sustainable business at Marks & Spencer; Anna Taylor, executive director of the Food Foundation; and Lee Stiles, secretary of the Lea Valley Growers' Association.
Volatility Is the New Normal
The government has been warned that volatility across major supermarkets is now the 'new normal'. Tim Lang, professor emeritus of food policy at City St George's, University of London, stated: 'This government has received serious scientific, intelligence and policy advice that it should take significant action on food security, but it keeps signalling all is OK. It's not. Whether we see food security as an issue of escalating food poverty and deepening cost of living squeeze or as the 'hard' version of security as defence, there are no grounds for complacency. Volatility is the new normal. We are in escalating trouble from climate heating, geopolitics, [the cost of] living squeeze and more. I find the public ready and willing but need leadership and support. What's more important a state responsibility than ensuring the population can and will be fed in all circumstances?'
National Security Issue
Richard Nugee, a retired general who also signed the letter, highlighted potential reductions in food quantity due to heat domes over grain baskets in Europe and globally. He noted that the food chain is being damaged by war, hindering exports and imports, and that UK farmers are struggling. Nugee warned of potential disruption to supply chains and the possibility that the UK may not be able to provide sufficient food at the right price for its people, calling this a national security issue. He added that people could become extremely stressed by food affordability and may take matters into their own hands.
