Top chefs back Eat Seasonably campaign

A new Defra-backed campaign called 'Eat Seasonably' has launched to show people the benefits of seasonal produce and reconnect them with the food they are eating and the seasons in which it is grown.

Research conducted by Defra has proven that a simple but significant step towards a more sustainable diet is to eat more fruit and vegetables when they are seasonally available, as they generally require less energy to produce and tend to cost less.

As well as being supported by Defra, the campaign is backed by top chefs including Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Gregg Wallace and Valentine Warner.

Other supporting organisations include the Royal Horticultural Society, the National Trust, RSPB, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Brakes, Pauleys, Global Action Plan, Soil Association, Sustain and the Women's Institute.

Environment secretary Hilary Benn said: "Food does taste best when it's eaten in season, so this campaign is a great way for people to enjoy meals and treats using local and seasonal produce, as well as discovering more about where their food comes from."

Linked to the campaign is the 'Big Lunch', which will take place on 19 July. It's encouraging people across the UK to set up street parties and tuck into locally grown, made or bought food and drink with friends and neighbours in streets, parks and church halls. 

Words: Maria Bracken

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