UK Food Security: Debunking the Myth of Being a Net Exporter

The recent headlines suggesting that the United Kingdom is a net exporter of food have brought to light a complex issue. Contrary to popular belief, the UK is not a net exporter of food. This article aims to shed light on the misconceptions and realities surrounding the UK's food security challenges, particularly in light of the upcoming Brexit.

Quantity: The Reality of UK Food Imports

The UK imports a significant portion of its food, with approximately 80% coming from outside the country. According to Food Statistics in your pocket: Global and UK supply from the UK government, in 2019, the value of imports was greater than the value of exports in each of the broad categories of food, feed, and drink, except for beverages which had a trade surplus of ￡1.81 billion, largely due to exports of Scotch Whisky.

This import dependency highlights the vulnerability of the UK's food supply chain, especially in the face of potential disruptions caused by Brexit. The logistical challenges of navigating new customs rules and unfamiliar import procedures could result in delays, leading to food shortages in local markets.

Quality: Exporting Unsuitable Goods

Even if the UK was a net exporter of food, there is no guarantee that the exported goods are suitable for the domestic market. A prime example is the UK's fishing industry. The fish caught by UK fishermen is largely exported because it is not the type of fish favored by the UK public.

Implications of Brexit on UK Food Security

With Brexit looming, the UK faces significant challenges in ensuring a stable and secure food supply. The current scenario, especially during periods when local food production is at its lowest, such as winter, presents a unique set of problems. Limited refrigerated warehousing capacity and the delay in implementing new customs procedures could exacerbate these issues.

Government officials with foresight might have planned for a no-deal Brexit during the spring, when the growing season would be in full swing, ensuring that local produce could better meet domestic demand. However, as we operate under the current leadership, it is clear that such wisdom is in short supply.

The consequences of such delays could include long queues at the frontier, preventing essential food items from reaching shops in a timely manner. While these issues are expected to be addressed over time, the initial phase of adjustment is critical and may lead to short-term shortages.

Conclusion

It is essential to understand that the UK is not a net exporter of food, and therefore, the risks associated with relying on imported goods are significant. As the country navigates the post-Brexit landscape, ensuring a stable and secure food supply will require careful planning and effective management of the food supply chain.