The organisations are asking for reporting to include the split between plant and animal protein, fruit and veg sales and climate emissions. This is alongside recognition that essential animal welfare, nature and further health metrics should follow as soon as possible. The call followed publication of a briefing coordinated and produced by the Eating Better Alliance.
There is no reason this can’t be implemented quickly as many organisations are already reporting these numbers. They will help provide the foundation for the government’s 10 Year Plan for the NHS and food strategy which is ‘good for both our health, and for the planet’. We know that investing in producing and consuming more fruit, veg and healthy foods is good for security, growth and health – and individual businesses reporting on these will help government move ahead on their plans.
A mandated – rather than voluntary – approach to public reporting is critical in order to ensure an industry wide approach to reporting that enables a true level playing field and to ensure standardisation of metrics and the reporting process. Including and beyond reporting there is a clear case for mandatory action shifting the dial when it comes to transformation in food.
The organisations which represent health, farming, environment and animal welfare stand ready to support the government and the sector in this move. We support the government’s commitment to implementing mandatory reporting as soon as possible with retailers and manufacturers over a certain size. We urge the quick expansion into food service (out of home) too.
Our collective organisations stand ready to support the government and the sector in a speedy process so the work of transforming our food system for the better can gather pace.