In times of uncertainty, consumers seek the comfort of the familiar. This was one of the main thrusts of a new report titled ‘The rebirth of home policy in fresh food’ by Euromonitor International. In addition, the report states, there is a growing desire amongst consumers to know and trust where their food comes from.
EMBRACING A LOCAL HERITAGE
The COVID-19 pandemic, and the way in which it has spread around the world, has reinforced consumers’ desire for ‘safe’ food. Because different countries have different policies and ideas of what is considered safe, local produce is perceived as safer than imported food in many countries and is therefore preferred.
In addition, consumers are turning back to locally sourced food as a source of identity, and food and native ingredients that remind consumers of home are therefore seeing increased popularity. These include indigenous inputs, homegrown food and country-of-origin claims.
South Africa is seeing a growing demand for pulses, such as lentils. Many retailers are pushing plant-based produce on social media, and there is a focus on affordability and health.
FEWER FARM-TO-FORK MILES
Another key factor is the availability of fresh produce, which is heavily reliant on an efficient supply chain. Closed borders, import/export delays, inclement weather and local unrest all have a negative effect on availability. This results in an increased reliance on local produce as consumers and retailers look for ways to keep shelves stocked.
This story is from the October 30, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 30, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Care of newborn lambs and goat kids
It may be a relatively simple task to successfully get rams to mate and for females to give birth, but the first couple of weeks of the life of a lamb or kid is a crucial period in livestock farming.
Don't ignore ChatGPT for one more day
If you are not using the free artificial intelligence app you’re missing out on assistance from the most potent personal assistant you could ever have.
Afternoon tea at the famous Mount Nelson
Brian Berkman says there’s not much to beat afternoon drinks and snacks served in the gardens at the newly refurbished Mount Nelson.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 4
Bill Kerr says that increasing the organic and microbe content of your soil is the first step to ensuring healthier crops and greater yields.
Luxurious and powerful workhorse at a great price
The new JAC T9 is certainly great value for money by offering features and driver comforts that compare with brands twice its retail price.
Are there solutions to antibiotic resistance, or are we running out of time to find new antibiotics?
Free State regional sales manager for Alltech, discusses how farmers can mitigate the use of antibiotics in cattle.
Dream stud Merinos
This stud was winning awards and attracting top prices, thanks to a quality sire imported from Australia eight years ago.
Choosing a breed that goes along with your lifestyle
Jarred Hodgson gives farmers advice on choosing the dog breed best suited to them, their families and operations. Although only four specific breeds are highlighted here, other breeds can also be considered.
Wheat production in South Africa
Master’s in Integrated Pest Management candidate at North-West University Zunel van Eeden explores the increasing importance of wheat production and the challenges experienced on the way to harvest time.
Sorghum essential for South Africa
Magda du Toit discusses Grain SA’s focus on sorghum as an important grain crop to cultivate, research and develop further in the country.