The Era of Cheap Food... [Added February, 16, 2009]

is apparently, over.  Prices for wheat, rice and vegetable oil are rising across the world, making a daily loaf from any of the big bakers up to 40% more expensive than it was last year.  The prices of free-range poultry are 47% more expensive than they were six months ago (according to The Times today).  Due to the weak pound, imported foodstuffs are becoming evermore costly.  

Now is the time for local food to become a fundamental part of the diet and lifestyle in Britain.  It doesn't need to be imported, it is less reliant on the food price tables of multinational organisations.  In terms of world resources and the climate, it is more economical, and is a genuine feel-good product in these turbulent times.

Local food is a quiet message, and rarely a glamorous one (a glance at us here will reinforce that fact!) but it is a worthwhile and meaningful one.  To eat locally and well will not break any bank (all too easy to do these days), but it will reinforce communities and reaffirm a connection with some of the things that make Britain great during what is essentially a miserable and difficult time.