Soil Association welcomes Welsh Government food strategy
The strategy aims to improve access to local, healthy, and sustainable food for everyone in Wales.
Soil Association head of policy Wales, Andrew Tuddenham, said: "There is an urgent need for the Welsh Government to use this strategy to help build a food system that prioritises healthy, nature-friendly and home-grown foods.
"And with this, they have an opportunity to show true leadership with the food system in Wales – an approach which other governments can learn from."
Mr Tuddenham highlighted the risks posed to the food supply by climate change and international conflict.
He said local food production benefits the economy and helps people avoid ultra-processed foods, which are contributing to a health crisis in Wales.
Mr Tuddenham urged the government to act quickly within this Senedd term.
He said key priorities should include delivering planning guidance to support new horticultural growers, and expanding the provision of nutritious school meals through a whole-school approach.
He added that farmers must be reassured with long-term support to adopt sustainable practices and through the development of strong local supply chains.
Mr Tuddenham said he hopes the strategy identifies a role for the Sustainable Farming Scheme.
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