Behind the Headlines
-
Challenge for agriculture as emissions progress stalls
Agriculture is expected to miss key reduction targets for greenhouse gases. With bold new policies needed, shifting demand could be the next step. By Nick Hughes. The UK’s transition to a resilient low-carbon economy is in danger of being derailed… Read More
-
New food advertising rules are better but not perfect
Restrictions on junk food adverts have been extended to cover children’s non-broadcast media, including print, posters, cinema, online, advergames and social media. Restrictions were already in place for TV. The new rules, which apply to media targeted at under-16s, reflect… Read More
-
Bring on the nanny state?
A free-market think-tank has condemned government intervention in people’s lifestyles – but if it has cut smoking and drinking, perhaps obesity should be the next target. By David Burrows. The “nanny state index” published in May shows “the best and worst… Read More
-
Pass the parcel on food waste
MPs say it’s retailers’ problem but the industry says households need to do more. Is it time for the government to step in? By David Burrows. Hardly a month goes by without another new “wonky vegetable” brand being launched or… Read More
-
Left behind on animal welfare
Consumers, politicians and many companies are taking the issue seriously – so why are foodservice firms lagging? There… Read More
-
Backlash over workers’ rights
Amazon, Sports Direct and ‘gig economy’ firms such as Deliveroo and UberEATS are seeing their reputations suffer after accusations of labour exploitation. By Tom Idle. There is nothing like a piece of legislation to focus the minds of corporate executives.… Read More
-
Sustainable diets in a post-Brexit world
Britain is a long way from being self-sufficient – and now is the time to reshape the food industry with health and sustainability in mind, writes Duncan Williamson. Food – how we grow, rear and catch it and what we… Read More
-
Plastic bags, paper cups and Pigouvian taxes
Will a tax on disposable items be Coffey’s cup of tea? Hold the front page: the government has met – nay, exceeded – a waste target. Last month, DEFRA published data on plastic bag use. In the first six months… Read More
-
Slow progress on soy
Foodservice firms are lagging way behind when it comes to responsible sourcing, according to WWF. By David Burrows. That very little difference two years make. WWF has just published its second scorecard assessing the performance of Europe’s biggest retail, foodservice,… Read More
-
Last throw of the dice for voluntary deals?
The Courtauld Commitment is targeting big cuts in waste across the food industry, but if it fails then legislators may step in. By David Burrows. A lot rests on Courtauld 2025. The new food industry super-agreement aims to save £20… Read More