Mandatory Food Labelling

I recognise that there is a strong public interest in clearer animal welfare information on the food people buy, so that people can make purchasing decisions that align with their values.

As many of you may know, a response to the public consultation on fairer food labelling was recently published. The public consultation showed a clear majority of the public, and stakeholders responded to support clearer food information on welfare standards. I understand that our Government will consider this evidence as part of its wider priorities on food labelling and information.

I know our Government is working in partnership with the food system to create an ambitious food strategy. This strategy will set the food system up for success, ensure that it can feed the nation, protect the planet and nourish individuals, both now and in the future. More broadly, I know that our Government wants to work closely with the farming sector to continue to deliver high standards of animal welfare.

It may be of interest to those reading that our Government is currently carefully considering the use of cages and other closed confinement systems for farmed animals. For example, at the moment, the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway has made available grants to improve the health and welfare of livestock. These grants were co-designed with farmers, academics, vets, and industry representatives as a way of helping encourage cage-free farming.

Food security is national security. We need a resilient food system that can weather any storm at the same time as making sure families across the country can access affordable, healthy food. This isn’t just about what’s on our plates today but about building a stronger system for generations to come.