90% of UK households will have a British turkey this Christmas, and 8-9 million are set to be eaten, according to the British Poultry Council (BPC).
Farming secretary Steve Barclay has paid tribute to British farmers, food producers and retailers ahead of Christmas Day on Monday (December 25).
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) highlighted data from Kantar which revealed that two thirds of the cheese and vegetables bought in the run up to Christmas last year were British.
Over 25,000t of British brussels sprouts were bought last year – over a third of which were in the festive season – alongside 3,500t of cranberry sauce.
Farming secretary Steve Barclay said: “Our farmers and food producers work hard all year round to keep the nation fed – but especially in the run up to Christmas to meet the demand for their top-quality, high-welfare, seasonal produce.
“Gathering friends and family round the table to share great food is one of the best things about Christmas, but it’s so important to remember where it all comes from.
“This year, I invite everyone to raise a glass to the dedicated farmers and food producers who fill our plates at Christmas.”
Director of corporate affairs and packaging at the Food and Drink Federation, Jim Bligh, said:
“Food and drink manufacturers are working hard during the festive period and play a crucial role in producing and supplying food and drink so that households can enjoy their Christmas meals with friends and family.
“The food and drink industry has many unsung heroes that will be helping to provide the much-loved food we eat at Christmas time, and I wish them all a very Happy Christmas.”
