Research commissioned by the Food Standards Agency suggests that growing trends towards convenience foods, online grocery shopping, and 'eating on the go' could decrease the social and cultural importance of sharing meals. Respondents worried about a loss of connection with where food comes from, and with each other, as cooking and eating together as families or communities becomes less common.
In other key findings, consumers were concerned that access to healthy and nutritious food could become a luxury as pricing prompts people to buy cheaper, processed food. Participants wanted Government and regulators to play a more visible role, to protect their interests. And increased clarity on food labels had been welcomed by consumers, with many looking for still more more information on a wider range of food issues.
The purpose of the study was to help understand how changes to the food system affect consumers in the UK. The findings contributed to a conference, Our Food Future, which brought together 200 experts to discuss the impacts of changes to the global food system. Outcomes will shape the agency's work with policy makers, industry, and retailers.
Find out more about Sustain's policy work here.
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
