NFU calls for ambitious food targets amid production decline and drought

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has called on the government to establish ambitious targets for homegrown food production. The NFU warned that Britain is now producing less food than it did three decades ago, noting that self-sufficiency has declined in 10 out of 11 everyday foods over the last 30 years. This warning comes as McCain Foods reported that 42 per cent of farmers considered leaving the industry due to financial pressures.

The NFU cited devastating drought, disease outbreaks, and soaring costs as major challenges facing farmers. The union stated that rising agricultural import volumes have increased by 70 per cent, while policy uncertainty and chronic underinvestment are eroding Britain’s ability to produce its own food.

Drought is currently affecting food production in England and Wales, leading to warnings from the NFU about potential shortages and demands for government action.