Co-founder of food chain Leon, Henry Dimbleby, is spending the day in the city to launch the Birmingham Food Conversation, which will feed into a national food strategy.
Henry will spend the day in Birmingham visiting food projects, organisations and community groups to encourage people to talk about all aspects of the food we eat: where it comes from, why we buy particular products, what we are actually consuming and how what we buy effects the whole food chain. Particularly important is engaging hard to reach groups and those with limited means.
This is part of an independent review in order to develop a National Food Strategy which looks at the entire food chain ‘from field to fork’.
The conversation will carry on over the next year in different forums and formats to help draw out a strong awareness of food in our city, it’s links to climate change, health, economic prosperity and community cohesion.
Cllr Paulette Hamilton, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Henry to Birmingham to get this conversation started. It is so important that people think about what they are eating, such as being aware of how much sugar is found in cereals and drinks, and where the food comes from.
“Young people and children need to learn from an early age about nutritional value and how to cook healthy food, even on a tight budget.
“We want to hear from people across the city, from all communities, and there will be plenty of opportunities to take part in this national conversation. So let’s talk food.”
Henry Dimbleby said: “If we want to change to our food system for the better, we will have to find local leaders in every village, every town and every city in the country. That’s why I’m so pleased to be in Birmingham today. The vision and determination that the city council is showing in their efforts to create a better food future are inspiring.
“I’m can’t wait to talk to local citizens, businesses and charities today – in what will be the first of our National Food Conversations – to hear about what’s working in Birmingham and think about what we all need to do to create a better future for our children.”
