Red meat and dairy missing from Defra’s new food strategy

The Labour government’s Good Food Cycle promises a bold overhaul of Britain’s food system – but by omitting any mention of British red meat or dairy, critics say it sacrifices a cornerstone of the nation’s farming, culture and diet.

Launched on Tuesday in Bradford by Defra minister for food security and rural affairs Daniel Zeichner, the “generational” food strategy sets out 10 key outcomes, from healthier diets to greener supply chains.

The government describes its Good Food Cycle as a food strategy for England, considering the wider UK food system.

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It aims to create a healthier, more sustainable and resilient food system by improving diets, supporting fairer supply chains, and strengthening food security across the UK.

Yet, nowhere in its 5,000-word release is there a single reference to British beef, lamb, pork or dairy – a conspicuous omission that’s raised red flags among farming leaders and food security advocates.

“This silence speaks volumes,” said Liz Webster, founder of campaign group Save British Farming.

“British farming is in cardiac arrest. Many farmers are producing food at a loss.

“Now, the wolves are at the door with inheritance tax threats.

“This isn’t reform, it is a smash and grab of our farms.

“This isn’t a strategy, it’s about starving the system, selling our land and outsourcing the food supply.

“The public deserves the truth,” she said.

The Good Food Cycle emphasises “healthier” foods that are lower in saturated fats and calories – language long associated with efforts to reduce red meat consumption.

While the government touts a vision of resilience, inclusivity and sustainability, critics argue it is quietly ushering in a shift toward ultra-processed alternatives and lab-grown proteins without honest debate or transparency.

Ms Webster warns that, under this vision, “a British child in 2035 might be eating ultra-processed soy-based nuggets made in a Dutch lab, while real UK farmers are forced off the land”.

Red Tractor, the UK’s biggest food standards assurance scheme, also issued a pointed statement urging the government to ensure that the push for a sustainable food system doesn’t come at the cost of undermining British standards or importing cheaper, lower-welfare meat from abroad.

Competing visions

Meanwhile, the Soil Association expressed concern about the undue influence of ultra-processed food manufacturers, calling for stronger action to promote minimally processed, whole foods, including responsibly produced British meat.

The Vegan Society welcomed the Good Food Cycle for acknowledging problems in the UK’s food system and the environmental harms of intensive animal farming.

However, it urged the government to back its vision with bold policies that actively promote plant-rich diets.