UK FOOD SECURITY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

Insight Report Highlights:
Why Food Security Is Suddenly on Everyone’s Radar

Once taken for granted, food security in the UK is now a real and growing concern. From supermarket shelves running low to skyrocketing food prices, it’s clear that the systems we rely on to get food from field to fork are under pressure.

Between Brexit, global trade disruptions, inflation, and climate change, the UK food system has been hit with a perfect storm. This web page unpacks the risks, government responses, and what needs to happen next to build a truly resilient food future for the UK.

What’s Threatening the UK’s Food Security?
1. Global Supply Chain Disruptions
From the COVID-19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine and Red Sea shipping delays, global supply chains have taken repeated hits.

The problem? The UK imports almost half of its food—meaning shocks abroad quickly turn into shortages or price hikes at home.

What’s being done? Some retailers are increasing domestic sourcing, while the government has launched reviews into trade dependency and emergency stockpiling. But long-term solutions are still evolving.

2. Post-Brexit Trade Barriers
Brexit introduced new customs checks, border delays, and import costs -especially for fresh food coming from the EU.

The problem? These extra steps have made importing food slower, riskier, and more expensive.

What’s being done? The government has implemented the UK Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) to streamline processes, but businesses still face paperwork, unpredictability, and rising costs.

3. Inflation and the Cost of Living
Rising input costs for energy, transport, and fertiliser have made food production more expensive. This inflation trickles down to consumers.

The problem? Many households are now forced to make tough choices between affordability and nutrition.

What’s being done? Supermarkets have introduced price locks and budget lines. The UK Government has also supported food banks and emergency food provision—but this addresses symptoms, not root causes.

4. Climate Change and Extreme Weather
From floods to droughts, UK farmers are increasingly affected by unpredictable weather, which reduces yields and disrupts planting cycles.

The problem? Climate volatility makes it harder to maintain consistent, reliable food supplies.

What’s being done? Investment is growing in climate-smart agriculture, water management, and crop diversification. But stronger policy direction is needed to speed up resilience building.

5. Labour Shortages on Farms and in Logistics
Brexit and stricter immigration rules have caused chronic labour shortages in farming, food processing, and haulage.

The problem? Crops go unpicked, products sit in warehouses, and shelves stay empty.

What’s being done? Some automation solutions are emerging, but not fast enough. Industry groups are calling for visa scheme reforms and better working conditions to attract more homegrown talent.

Building a Resilient UK Food System
So what’s the way forward? Food security isn't just about crisis response—it's about long-term planning, smart investment, and policy alignment across the entire supply chain.

What We Need to See:
Boosting Domestic Production: Supporting UK farmers to grow more with sustainable, climate-resilient methods.

Smarter Trade Policy: Reducing red tape while diversifying import sources.

Stronger Food Reserves: Emergency stockpiles of essential goods.

Workforce Solutions: Training and incentivising the next generation of food sector workers.

Public Education: Helping consumers understand food origins, seasonality, and waste.

Conclusion: From Vulnerability to Vitality
The message is clear: food security can no longer be an afterthought. It’s a matter of national stability, public health, and economic resilience.

By learning from recent disruptions and investing in smarter systems, the UK has a real opportunity to build a food system that’s stronger, fairer, and more future-ready. This Insight Report Let’s considers how the shelves can stay full - no matter what the world throws our way.

Call to Action
Are you a food business, policymaker, or stakeholder looking to be part of the food security conversation? We help organisations assess risk, build local supply partnerships, and future-proof food systems with smart strategies and actionable insights. Talk to our experts today and join the mission to make UK food secure, sustainable, and resilient.

This content of this website highlights the UK Food Council’s role and its collaboration with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, reflecting the council’s dedication to improving food systems and security. As we continue to build on our successes, we invite individuals, businesses, and organizations to join us in our journey towards a sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions and ensure food security for generations to come.

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