Tesco Bid To Recruit More UK Organic Farmers

Date: Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Tesco has launched an initiative aimed at recruiting more British organic farmers – and increasing availability of British-sourced organic meat.

To kick start the initiative an event was held at the Food Animal Initiative in Oxford, with assistance from the Soil Association and DEFRA, who were on hand to offer support and advice on the grants available to those thinking of converting to organic.

The event demonstrated commercial organic production systems already in place at the Tesco-sponsored Food Animal Initiative in Oxford. And participants had the chance to learn from Tesco suppliers who have converted for dairy, chicken and beef.

Tescos is seeing huge growth in organic sales, particularly since its decision to sell organic goods alongside conventional. The idea behind the open day was to bring together suppliers interested in converting to help meet growing demand from consumers.

Tesco Agricultural Manager Michelle Waterman said, “The growth in the organic market represents a real opportunity for British farmers to align themselves with a premium market.

“We have already gone on record as saying our overall aim is to source 100% British on organic meat and have had some real success in increasing the amount of British sourced organics we can offer customers – the amount of British sourced beef and pork in particular."

“But there is still an opportunity here for far more farmers to benefit."

“In the short term, Tesco is also working with suppliers to explore opportunities to reduce “wastage” in the chain. For example, organic dairy cows and calves could be finished organically, rather than entering the conventional supply chain."

Pig farmer and organic pioneer Helen Browning was among those sharing her experience at the Tesco event. She said: “The organics market has seen extraordinary growth over the past year. There are undoubtedly opportunities for farmers to get involved if they think they would enjoy farming organically - and it is encouraging that Tesco suppliers are offering contracts to those who convert."

“My advice to those considering conversion is to be clear about your market, and secure your position in the supply chain. It’s crucial to keep supply and demand in balance.”

Those interested in converting to organic production and discussing the contracts available further should contact:

• John Dracup, St Merryn, Beef and Lamb 01726 891155

• Richard Phelps, Southern Counties Fresh Foods, Organic Dairy beef, 01458254552

• Mike Wijnberg, Tulip, Pigs, 01728 723170

For more details on the practical aspects of conversion to organic farming please contact:

• Ruth Layton, Food Animal Initiative, 01865 7692890

• The Soil Association Food and Farming department, 0117 914 2400