Food Animal Initiative
FAI is both an academic resource and a farming enterprise that brings together a unique combination of commercial agriculture, research programmes, the food chain, non-governmental interest groups and policy makers. Its work, supported by Tesco, focuses on the three Es – Economics, Environment and Ethics with the objectives of developing food production systems that deliver better animal welfare, improved farmland environments and that are economically sustainable from primary producer through to the consumer.
Sound, evidence-based, independent science underpins all FAIs work, with knowledge, ideas and practical solutions spread through networks of farmers, processors and the retail sector. Increasingly, with the challenges that face a growing world population in the 21st century, the work of FAI has an international dimension and draws on examples of best practice from around the globe.
Working in close liaison with the University of Oxford Zoology Department, projects have made significant advances in animal welfare, reduced environmental impact, while still maintaining economic performance.
Tesco has been a core supporter from the beginning, encouraging the work and facilitating the incorporation of recommendations into its own supply chain. FAI works with industry groups and individuals who are willing to look at their practices with open eyes and who want to commit to a process of positive change.
The Farm
FAI has been based at the former University of Oxford farm at Wytham since September 2001 and farms 425 hectares of land to the north west of the city, including a large area of rich flood meadows along the River Thames. The extensive grassland is managed under the Upper Thames Tributaries Environmentally Sensitive Area and Countryside Stewardship Schemes and the farm includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The farm produces beef from the 100-strong herd of single-suckled Saler cattle, lamb from the flock of 800 ewes, pork from the herd of Gloucester Old Spot pigs, and chicken from the 10,000 free-ranging organic table birds that enjoy the benefits of an enriched environment. Using the range of enterprises as part of its research programmes, FAI develops practical production systems and, while the primary focus is on the enhancement of animal welfare, system development which must be both economically viable and readily adopted by other producers.
With regular open days and a stream of UK and international visitors, the farm is host to educational programmes and parties with an interest in food production and the environment
