Championing Local Food in Mid Suffolk

Building a healthier, more resilient local food system

Mid Suffolk has a proud agricultural heritage — and a growing opportunity to strengthen local food production for the benefit of our communities, our environment and our local economy.

Our aim is simple: more local food, more local skills, and a more resilient food system for everyone.

Why local food matters

Across the UK, food looks plentiful — but the system behind it is fragile. We import around half of what we eat, healthy food is often harder to access, and long supply chains are vulnerable to disruption.

Strengthening local production helps us:

• Improve access to fresh, nutritious food
• Support local growers and small businesses
• Reduce food miles and environmental impact
• Build resilience against national supply‑chain shocks

Mid Suffolk’s opportunity

Our district is productive, innovative and home to growers, makers, home gardeners and major food businesses. By supporting this local ecosystem, we can grow a stronger, more sustainable food future.

Our priorities

Support small producers

Helping new and existing growers, bakers and makers to start, scale and thrive.

Grow farmers’ markets and direct selling

More opportunities for residents to buy fresh, local produce — and for producers to reach customers.

Create a local food directory

A clear, accessible guide to farm shops, veg boxes, community markets and direct‑to‑consumer producers.

Improve access to healthy food

Working with partners to help low‑income households access fresh fruit and vegetables.

Build food skills

Piloting “Eat and Learn” programmes for schools and adults to rebuild confidence in cooking and food preparation.

Strengthen food resilience

Researching local risks and opportunities to ensure Mid Suffolk is prepared for future food‑system challenges.