In the agricultural sector, there is a growing sense of urgency to protect the lifeblood of our rural economy – family farms.
These farms, often passed down through generations, are vital players in the health and prosperity of the nation.
Yet, they face existential threats, such as the recent Budget’s proposed changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and the ongoing neglect of the farming economy.
You can read more about these IHT changes and how to prepare for them here.
A recent report by the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission (FFCC) sheds light on the immense cost of Britain’s unhealthy food system, which drains an estimated £268 billion annually, which is almost as much as the entire UK healthcare budget.
This figure shows the pressing need to reconnect food production with health and sustainability, with UK farmers at the forefront of the solution.
The hidden costs of the current food system
The FFCC’s report, The False Economy of Big Food, reveals that the financial burden of ultra-processed foods is four times higher than the cost of transitioning to a healthier food system.
The current model leaves both households and the public purse footing an unsustainable bill.
Ultra-processed foods now dominate diets in the UK, with over half of adults’ and nearly two-thirds of adolescents’ daily intake falling into this category.
The report highlights how the food system is stacked against both farmers and consumers, benefiting large corporations at the expense of public health and agricultural livelihoods.
The role of family farms
Sustainable family farms are uniquely positioned to address these challenges.
They produce fresh, locally grown food that can form the foundation of a healthier national diet.
Beyond this, they play a vital role in biodiversity, soil health, and the preservation of rural communities.
Yet, proposed changes to IHT threaten to destabilise these enterprises, making it harder for farms to remain within families.
Without targeted support, the risk is clear. Smaller, independent farms could disappear, replaced by industrial-scale operations prioritising volume over quality and sustainability.
The need for sustainable farming
The FFCC argues for change, including preserving the right to healthy food in law, regulating the food environment, and rebalancing power within the food system.
However, these changes must go hand-in-hand with support for farmers, enabling them to meet the demand for healthier, greener, and fairer food.
Our team has a vital role to play in this transition.
By offering tailored advice on tax planning, diversification strategies, and funding opportunities, we can help family farms secure their futures.
We can also advocate for policies that promote sustainable farming as a cornerstone of a healthier food system.
From the impact of IHT changes on your farm to exploring ways to adapt to new food trends, or simply looking for guidance on how to future-proof your business, our team is ready to assist.
We can work together to ensure that UK farming remains at the heart of the nation’s health and prosperity.
Contact us today to find out how we can support you.