Defra minister visits Riverford farm amid organic growth talks

Defra farming minister Dame Angela Eagle visited Riverford’s organic farm and packing facility at Sacrewell, near Peterborough, as talks continue on an Organic Action Plan for England.

The visit on 10 June brought together representatives from Riverford, the Soil Association and the English Organic Forum (EOF) to discuss expanding organic production, strengthening domestic supply chains and meeting rising consumer demand for organic food.

The meeting comes as the UK organic market continues its long-term growth, reaching £3.9bn in 2025, according to the Soil Association’s Organic Market Report.

See also: Organic sector growth highlights policy divide across UK

The sector recorded its 14th consecutive year of growth, with sales rising 4.2% year on year. However, organic farmland in England remains static at around 3%, with much of the growing demand being met through imports.

Speaking during the visit, Dame Angela said: “As demand for our organic produce continues to grow here and abroad, we are working with the sector to develop an Organic Action Plan for England – unlocking barriers to growth, strengthening domestic supply chains and giving consumers greater choice of home-grown food.”

She added: “Yesterday’s visit was a valuable opportunity to see first-hand how organic farmers are delivering for people, nature and the rural economy.

“Their commitment to healthy soils, thriving wildlife and sustainable food production demonstrates what can be achieved through a whole-farm approach.”

Discussions focused on the role organic farming can play in improving soil health, boosting biodiversity and increasing resilience in food production amid climate volatility and supply chain disruption.

Riverford chief executive Rob Haward said British agriculture was facing increasing challenges.

“British farmers are facing growing pressure from climate volatility, rising costs and supply chain disruption,” he said.

“Demand for organic food is growing strongly, yet much of that demand is still being met through imports.

“We were pleased to welcome the minister to Sacrewell and discuss how British farmers and food businesses can meet more of that demand, strengthen domestic supply chains and build a more resilient food system for the future.”

‘Key solution’ to climate crisis

Adrian Steele, co-chairman of the EOF and a Soil Association farming adviser, said organic farming offered “a key solution to tackling the climate and nature crises without taking land out of our food production”.

Representatives from the organic sector are expected to continue discussions with Defra in the coming months ahead of the anticipated publication of the Organic Action Plan for England this summer.