Vegetarian diet might not be a choice in the UK

According to a new assessment of UK food security, Britain could face a universal vegetarian diet should a world foot shortage arise. Although the UK is 73% self-sufficient, the food chain is vulnerable.
For instance, population, climate change, higher oil prices, and bio-fuel diverting food supply could all affect UK diets . Other major factors could include the outbreak of animal diseases, trade disputes and shipping issues.
In extreme circumstances, the UK would have to adjust its diet . Cereal crops would need to be used to feed the nation, and make sure that people had adequate nutrition. A vegetarian diet could be the first decision in an emergency, with more cereal, fruit and vegetables taking the place of meat and poultry.
Mr. Benn was reported as commenting: “We need a radical rethink in how we produce and consume food. Globally we need to cut emissions and adapt to the changing climate that will alter what we can grow and where we can grow it. We must maintain the natural resources – soils, water and biodiversity – on which food production depends. And because we live in an interconnected world – where the price of soya in Brazil affects the price of steak at the local supermarket – we need to look at global issues that affect food security here. That’s why we need to consider what food systems should look like in 20 years and what must happen to get there.”