British Food Fortnight Begins

Ever stood in a supermarket aisle and wondered where your weekly shop actually comes from? It’s an easy thing to overlook. But for two weeks this autumn, the entire nation is being encouraged to think about just that. From 26 September to 12 October, it’s all about celebrating the amazing homegrown food on our doorsteps and the people who produce it. This is British Food Fortnight, and it’s a bigger deal than ever. Now in its 24th year, this national event brings communities together to champion the brilliant quality and diversity of British food and farming. It’s a chance for everyone to get involved, have some fun, and show some serious support for our farmers.

So, what’s the big deal this year?

This isn't just about enjoying a good meal. The whole event is a massive shout-out to the connection everyone has with food. Alexia Robinson, who founded the campaign, puts it perfectly:

“This year’s theme shines a spotlight on food’s deep-rooted connections with each of us – the bond that sustains the nation, physically, culturally, and economically.”

It's a reminder that what’s on the plate is linked to jobs, traditions, and even the landscape. Especially now, with all sorts of global wobbles, making sure the UK can feed itself is a top priority. This is the core message of the Love British Food campaign. And it's a message that many national organisations are getting behind. This fortnight is about putting the spotlight firmly on our fantastic British farmers and growers. It's a time to celebrate their hard work and the incredible quality of the food they produce. The support for this campaign is huge, with many important people and organisations lending their voices. The entire fortnight is a massive platform, using all forms of media to spread the word.

A rallying cry for our farmers

Let’s be honest, it’s been a tough couple of years for those in the farming industry. That’s why public support means so much. Tom Bradshaw, the president of the National Farmers Union, explained the situation clearly:

“This British Food Fortnight comes on the back of a very hard two years for many farmers and growers. Public support means the world to those out in all weathers producing great British food for the nation. This fortnight is a great chance to celebrate all they do, so please show your support by trying to buy British wherever you can.”

It’s a feeling shared across the board. Shadow Farming Minister, Robbie Moore MP, agrees that British farming is the lifeblood of the rural economy:

“From the family farms that have been part of our countryside for generations to our young farmers bringing fresh ideas into the industry, British farming is the backbone of our rural economy. This year’s Food Fortnight celebrations are bigger than ever and I would encourage everyone to use this moment to show their support!”

So, the call to action is simple: back British farmers and celebrate the amazing food they provide. The well-being of so many rural communities depends on this support.

A proper community get-together in Harrogate

This isn’t just an event for foodies in big cities. For the first time, the celebrations are happening right across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Think of it as a nationwide party where everyone’s invited. From city councils to tiny village halls, from schools and universities to hospitals and care homes, everyone is getting involved.

One such community event is in Starbeck.

Event	The Starbeck Food Fiesta
Where	Harrogate Neighbours Community Hub, Starbeck High Street
When	Tuesday 7th October, from 12pm – 3pm
Cost	Free! But donations to the hub are welcome

And if you’re one of the fantastic local food producers or food providers out there, there's still a chance to get involved. Just get in touch with Harrogate Neighbours.

A special harvest celebration

The fortnight builds up to something really special. The main event involves the Harvest Torch, which is a bit like the Olympic torch but for food. It has been touring agricultural shows all summer and will have a special Harvest Service at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds on Sunday 5th October. This is right in the middle of the British Food Fortnight. After that, the torch heads to London for the National Harvest Service at Westminster Abbey. This takes place on World Food Day, the week after the main celebrations end. The President of the NFU will carry it, highlighting the national importance of the harvest. This finale also shines a light on making sure good, fresh food is available to everyone, with partners like The Trussell Trust and The Felix Project involved. It's a fitting end to a fortnight dedicated to food, farming, and community.

How to get stuck in

So, how can people join in? The whole point of the campaign is to make it easy for everyone to participate. Alexia Robinson adds, “We are incredibly grateful for the support from all our partners and Food Heroes who help us amplify the voices of British farmers and ensure British Food Fortnight 2025 is a resounding success in promoting local, sustainable food.” From school catering services to big hospitality groups, everyone is encouraged to get involved.

• Derek Wright, Blackpool Catering Services: "School meals play a vital role... British Food Fortnight is the perfect opportunity to showcase the importance of fresh, local, and seasonal produce on the plates of our young people."
• James Armitage, Fresh Direct: “From hospitals to hospitality, British food creates some fantastic dishes and it’s only right that we celebrate the amazing contribution our farmers and growers make.”
• Phil Stocker, National Sheep Association: “It’s really important to reflect on just how fortunate we are to have such an abundance of high quality food and drink, produced here in Britain with care and a lot of hard work by farmers.”

The best way to find local events and discover how to take part is by visiting www.lovebritishfood.co.uk or following @LoveBritishFood on social media. Let’s come together to grow, cook, and champion British food, supporting our amazing British farmers and our communities along the way.