New LEAF scheme for growers

A NEW scheme aimed specifically at cereal growers to link them more closely with consumers is likely to be available next year, it has emerged.

“There is a significant cereals based project in the pipeline, which should come to fruition next year,” said Jeremy Boxall from LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) at the Smithfield show (Dec 2).

LEAF aims to raise awareness and encourage consumers to buy into their environmental values, added chief executive Caroline Drummond.

“There are good opportunities on the cereals side and there has been quite a lot of interest amongst millers and brewers in setting up a scheme,” she said.

“Unless we get people to understand what they are buying into, cheap food will perpetuate,” she added.