Why buy British
Cyrus Todiwala OBE

Cyrus Rustom Todiwala OBE, DL, is an Indian chef proprietor of the famed London restaurant, Café Spice Namasté.  Born in Mumbai, he has lived in England since the 90s and he is a passionate advocate for British food.  Amongst his many, many achievements he has worked with the NHS to create ethnic menus for hospitals; is the first ever chef ambassador for the Rare Breeds Survival Trust; works with HRH The Prince of Wales promoting Mutton on menus; and is long-standing Ambassador for Love British Food.



Why buy British?  For me I know of no other country that has such high standards in place from welfare of animals to monitoring of land usage for crops and so on.  Yes more is being done and can be done, but we are miles ahead of most in terms of how our resources are managed.  On top of all that we have a vast plethora of rare breeds the protecting of which I am deeply passionate about and for their survival into the food chain of the future.  Most British rare breeds from the rarest of sheep of the Island of North Ronaldsay to the Derbyshire Redcap Chicken from the south. 


The recent movement of Pasture Fed is a great way to acknowledge that the farming community is in itself taking initiatives to ensure that what is produced is the best, most environmentally friendly, animal welfare friendly to the highest standards with a very low footprint.  If you are one that believes in animal welfare then you are in the right nation.


Our fishing industry is currently in a tight spot and needs all our support to help our fishermen and women continue their trade and to see the they are succeeded by their family traditions well into the future.


The British public eats very little home grown shellfish and we need to exploit this great national resource more. Not just for its taste but its nutritional values, its affordability and its vast availability, but also for the fact that we have some of the cleanest waters in the world and our seafood is harvested in pristine clean waters.  Moreover of the 250 odd species that our waters harvest only a tiny fragment of that is consumed by British diners.  There is a greater need for us to explore the many wonderful species we harvest so that we do not put extra pressure on limited stocks of over-utilised species.


What many British people do not know is that when they cross across the waters to enjoy fresh Oysters or Mussels in a French or Belgian town, that seafood probably came from Britain.  The best of our Cuttlefish for example go to Europe where the British tourist will pay top dollar for Mediterranean preparations, but not eat the same when cooked and served in Britain. We see little or no Spider Crabs in Britain since almost 99% is immediately exported just like many other species.  Currently our fishermen are not able to export Langoustines and it is the perfect time for people in Britain to enjoy this delicacy.  So go ahead and order this from your fish monger and enjoy this delicious sweet crustacean for which the continentals are so crazy. 


I would like to add one more little story here that gives proof to the fact that we must support British farming more and buy more British simply because we cannot afford to loose what is so inherently British and that is farming for the masses.


Britain has several native pig breeds and some of these are very rare and some near extinction.  The advent of publicising non fatty smaller animals for slaughter means that many of our own breeds which are meatier and fattier stand no chance for the consumer to purchase, even though they are tastier, and have been ignored in exchange for imported breeds.  Britain has strict rules on pig farming by and large and we take every precaution to ensure that large scale factory farms do not feature in our countryside.  For this to prevail, and the best animal husbandry to survive, we must support the British farmer and buy locally bred animals that have been given all the love care and attention they deserve.


Since the end of the second world war fourteen native breeds of pigs have perished and become extinct, due to the acceptance of fast maturing, controlled pig farming from Europe and beyond.  We cannot allow this to happen, so we must support the local farmer who is proud of his herd and safeguards their interest.  As the Patron of one of the rarest pig breeds, the British Lop, I am very concerned that we may loose a few more species if we are not supportive of British farming and Buy British. 


BUY BRITISH!


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By Alexia Robinson July 29, 2025
Courteenhall Estate, a model of regenerative farming nestled in the rolling countryside of South Northamptonshire, provided a stunning backdrop for Love British Food’s tenth on-farm training day. The Estate’s rich heritage is married to a compelling story of innovation, stewardship and sustainability which perfectly aligned with the purpose of the visit – to connect changemakers across the public sector with the people and places behind the food they serve. The training day brought together over 20 professionals working across schools, hospitals, universities, care homes, local authorities and the supply chain. All united by the shared goal of putting more British produce on the menu in public sector settings. From the outset, the day cultivated open conversation, collaborative thinking, and a renewed sense of purpose for everyone present. A thriving example of sustainable British farming Hosted by Dr Johnny Wake, British Farming Awards’ Sustainable Farmer of the Year 2024, the event offered attendees a first-hand view of nature-friendly farming in action. Johnny, returned to run the 350-year-old family estate after a career in medicine. Bring his expert insight on health and applying it to how food is produced in the healthiest way while benefiting the environment. Over more than a decade, he has transformed Courteenhall into a shining example of regenerative agriculture. Under his guidance, the Estate has diversified from traditional arable to a mixed farm that has introduced combinable crops such as cereals, oilseeds and pulses as part of the rotation to build soil health. Livestock have been reintroduced including the heritage breed of Hereford cattle. This hardy herd are Reared to Pasture for Life standards by grazing the ancient parkland throughout the year. This benefits biodiversity, sequesters carbon, supports human health and animal welfare. The landscape itself told a story – lush wildflower strips including rare orchids, cover crops, and vibrant hedgerows served to evidence of the farm’s commitment to biodiversity, carbon capture, and soil health. Visitors saw sustainability in action; as an operational ethos rooted in both legacy and future-thinking. Connecting sectors, sharing solutions Love British Food’s changemaker events are never passive learning days – they are spaces for people working in public sector catering to forge connections, share challenges, and co-create solutions. Over a lunch of seasonal British produce, delegates engaged in practical discussions around procurement barriers, seasonal menu planning, and leveraging local supply chains. Examples shared on the day illustrated what success looks like in action: Nottingham County Council’s County Enterprise Foods radically restructured its supply chain to source 100% fresh local produce Milton Keynes University Hospital reported cost savings through working with a local butcher An NHS Trust restructured its tendering process to accommodate a regional dairy supplier NHS caterer reported move from per-patient budgets to fortnightly budgets to deliver savings Schools using regional wholesalers for fresh vegetables and meat Local dairy farm supplied ice cream to hospital, improving nutritional value North Shropshire hospital sourcing beef from a local farm and putting it on their menu once a month These stories demonstrated how policy shifts, procurement language, and courageous leadership can unlock opportunities for British producers. As one attendee put it, “Today has shown how much positive impact you can have through small but meaningful changes. Shouting about what you’re already doing, telling the story – it becomes part of your customer experience.” The power of networks With Courteenhall marking the tenth farm visit, Love British Food’s training programme has now created a nationwide network of over 200 changemakers. These are individuals return to their institutions empowered and equipped to push for incremental but impactful shifts in sourcing policy. Founder Alexia Robinson described the importance of this network: “Each of our changemakers leaves with a deeper understanding of how the food we eat is produced, and why that matters for sustainability, nutrition, and local economies. Their collective impact is immense – British food becomes not just a procurement choice, but a values-led statement.” This growing network is already delivering on that promise, advocating for systemic change in the way public institutions think about food. Attendees discussed how procurement frameworks can be rewritten to prioritise sustainability, how stories from farms can help meet Ofsted and CQC objectives, and how even minor shifts in menus can support the broader goal of a healthy, sustainable food system. From vision to action The event closed with a strong sense of optimism and forward motion. As delegates prepared to return to their respective organisations, the mood was one of resolve. The visit had reaffirmed the link between food, land, health, and sustainability. Most importantly, it had sparked ideas for how to turn knowledge into action. Love British Food’s farm training visits are not just about showcasing British farming, they are about cultivating a movement. They remind us that changing our food system is not about one big leap, but about many people making small, meaningful steps, together. As one changemaker concluded: “Whether it’s choosing a local butcher, sourcing seasonal veg, or championing British produce in a school lunch, it all adds up. That’s the power of this programme. It gives us the knowledge and the network to make it happen.” As out host farmer, Johnny spoke of the impact the day and how it changed his perception: “I now have a much better understanding of the multiple challenges in public sector catering. While sweeping reform won’t happen overnight, small, strategic changes will deliver long-term improvements to public health and our environment.” Quotes from the day: "Change needs to be accessible and actionable. Today has shown how much positive impact you can have through small but meaningful changes." “We urgently need to dispel the myth that fresh, British produce is more expensive – when considered in a wider social and economic context.” “We need to make food a priority in the NHS. Too often the focus in hospital is on cure rather than prevention.” “The programme provides a vital opportunity to see the work that British farmers put into producing food” “We need to make food a priority in the NHS. Too often the focus in hospital is on cure rather than prevention.” “Shout about what you are already doing, tell the stories so it becomes part of your organisation and your customer experience” “I am hugely grateful to Johnny for hosting and sharing how regenerative farming contributes to British food production.” “Johnny was such an outstanding host, with a wealth of knowledge to share and a keen interest in the intricacies of public sector procurement.” Caterers, Dieticians, Procurement Leads and Board Members are all invited to attend our farm visits. Each visit runs from approx. 11am – 3pm and involves a farm tour followed by working lunch and discussion on opportunities and challenges. Anyone interested in attending a future farm visit and joining our cohort of changemakers should contact: info@lovebritishfood.co.uk
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Love British Food has hosted its tenth on-farm training event for public sector food professionals at Courteenhall Estate, expanding the number of change makers to 214 people, all inspired to champion British produce.
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By Alexia Robinson May 6, 2025
Love British Food announces its tenth on-farm training event for public sector food professionals, showcasing how sustainable British produce can enhance nutrition, meet procurement standards, and support local economies. Taking place on Tuesday 10 June at Courteenhall Estate in Northamptonshire, the event is being hosted by the British Farming Awards Sustainable Farmer of 2024, Dr Johnny Wake. Dr. Wake left a career in medicine to focus on transforming his family farm into a leading example of regenerative farming. He will guide a tour of the Estate, showcasing the sustainable practices shaping British agriculture. Delegates can expect practical insights and an opportunity to share learning with their peers, as Dr Wake explores the vital relationships in the food chain and their link to student / patient wellbeing. From sustainably managing land to produce low-impact, nutritious food, to the positive outcomes this has for health – both for people and the environment. “We’re looking forward to welcoming Love British Food to Courteenhall,” says Dr Wake. “We’re keen to promote healthy eating and a connection with food and where it comes from by providing tangible example of how responsible land stewardship, sustainability, and holistic living can be seamlessly integrated into daily life.” With the upcoming Government Buying Standards for public sector procurement, this unique training day offers a timely opportunity to learn how to align with policies that prioritise nutritious, sustainably farmed British food—driving economic growth and supporting public health. The event will also introduce the new partnership between Love British Food and Food for Life, aimed at promoting good food in schools, hospitals and care settings. This visit is part of Love British Food’s national programme promoting British food within the public sector. After successfully completing nine farm visits, this tenth event will inspire even more caterers to champion locally sourced, environmentally sustainable, and nutritionally superior food. Alexia Robinson, Love British Food Founder, says: “Simply put, food grown in a way that Johnny advocates for, not only enhances the environment it is often more nutritious. It plays a vital role in helping students thrive, patients recover, and our local communities and economies to flourish.” Learn more about Love British Food’s farm visit programme here: Farm Visits for Caterers Event notes: Cost including farm tour, lunch, and training materials: £50 for NACC and TUCO members £95 for non-members How to book: NACC members: Email Neel.Radia@thenacc.co.uk TUCO members: Email Sarah.McLoughlin@tuco.ac.uk Or online at https://www.tuco.ac.uk/academy/professional-development/development-day/love-british-food-training-day Other organisations: Email alexiarobinson@lovebritishfood.co.uk Location details: Courteenhall Estate, Northamptonshire, NN7 2QD Visit the Courteenhall Estate Website Agenda: 10.30am - Arrival with tea/coffee and introductions 11.00am - Guided farm tour led by Dr Johnny Wake, showcasing regenerative farming practices 1.00pm - Working lunch and group discussion covering: Building robust, local supply chains How sustainable food supports net zero goals Improving nutrition and health outcomes Menu planning around seasonal produce Managing cost challenges Community benefits of sourcing British Love British Food's national programme of farm visits and support 3.00pm - Closing remarks (the day will conclude by 3.30pm) Listen: Dr Wake, recently appeared on BBC Radio 4 discussing the future of food and farming. Listen to his interview here: BBC Radio 4 Interview
By Alexia Robinson April 16, 2025
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Our Journey So Far
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