The Nuffield Triennial ‘Farming Fit for Food’ conference day, being held on 8 June at the East Midlands Conference Centre, is set to discover how food and farming industries can rise to the challenge of ever-changing food demand, and diet related health issues.
Conference day chairman, Stephen Fell, says that a growing food culture is sweeping across Britain, with consumers choosing foods to fit into a healthy lifestyle. But at the same time the country is seeing increasing health problems, with high levels of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
“I’m delighted to announce that a full line up of senior academics, public health representatives and farming industry experts are set to speak at the event, in order to help find answers to some of the questions posed by these food related health issues.
“Freelance broadcaster and journalist, Tom Heap, well known for his role on the BBC’s Countryfile, will chair the conference, which kicks off with Professor Michael Winter OBE, University of Exeter.
“Professor Winter will explore some of the ways in which agriculture can play a part in improving public health, as well as some of the challenges facing the sector.”
Also speaking at the conference is Caroline Drummond MBE, CEO of LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming).
“Caroline will highlight steps that the farming industry can consider to take an active role as part of the solution to obesity, including farm management, soil health and stronger public engagement,” adds Stephen.
These keynote speakers will be supported by experts from all areas of the supply chain, including Professor Susan Jebb, Dr Tina Barsby and Jane Bennett who will provide insights into population health, advances in plant breeding and integrating the supply chain to drive the market.
Following the keynote sessions, a panel debate will be held to discuss the topic ‘Adding value for the farmer through the health agenda’. Included in the debate are the following panel members:
- Guy Smith, NFU vice president
- Russ Carrington, founding member of the Pasture-Fed Livestock Association
- Duncan Williamson, food policy manager, WWF-UK
- David Northcroft, technical and development director, Berry Gardens
“Not only will delegates listen to industry experts and advisors, but they’ll also hear from those closer to the production and sale of the end product, who are already playing an active part in responding to the changing consumer demand, with innovative new ideas and products.”
The day will conclude with a conference dinner and speaker, Matthew Naylor, managing director, Naylor Flowers and UK Nuffield Scholar.
Hotel bookings close on 31 March and conference day bookings close on 15 May. To find out more and book your place, please visit www.nuffieldinternational2017.org/conference-day/how-to-book or call 01664 503215.