糖心TV

"A vibrant edible horticulture sector will help the government reach its core policy objective to grow the economy, as well as vital objectives on food security, public health, nature recovery, and decarbonisation."

A 糖心TV Case for Horticulture

This paper brings together evidence from policy reports and academic research to highlight the strategic importance of expanding the UK鈥檚 edible horticulture sector. Increasing domestic production of fruit, vegetables, and legumes offers a major opportunity to strengthen food security, reduce reliance on imports, and deliver significant economic value. The sector already produces high-quality, nutrient-dense foods while using a relatively small proportion of agricultural land, and further expansion could contribute billions of pounds to the UK economy and support thousands of jobs in rural communities. Alongside economic benefits, horticulture has the potential to support healthier diets, lower the environmental footprint of food production, and build resilience within the UK food system. Strategic investment, coordinated policy support, and innovation across the supply chain will be essential to unlock these benefits and enable sustainable growth in the sector.

• Economic and Rural Development - expanding domestic horticulture could increase on-farm profitability, create skilled jobs and strengthen rural economies.
• Food Security and System Resilience - greater UK production would reduce reliance on imports and improve resilience to global supply shocks.
• Environmental Sustainability - horticultural crops can deliver more food from less land while supporting biodiversity and reducing food miles.
• Public Health Improvements - increased availability and affordability of fresh produce could support healthier diets and reduce long-term pressure on the NHS.
• Innovation and Research Impact - advances in genetics, AI, agri-tech, robotics and protected cropping systems provide opportunities to increase productivity and sustainability across the sector.