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Support for Local Food
Nearly a third (30%) of shoppers say they have specifically purchased locally produced food over the last month, which is double the number in 2006, according to new consumer research released by food and grocery analysts IGD.

Support for ethically produced foods in general has withstood the pressures of an 18-month recession and is in fact growing, despite the tough economic conditions.

When asked about food they have specifically purchased over the last month, shoppers responded:
  • 30% said locally produced food (up from 15% in 2006)
  • 27% Fairtrade products (up from 9%)
  • 18% products with high animal welfare standards (up from 11%)

Joanne Denney-Finch, chief executive, IGD, said: "These figures prove what we have been saying throughout the recession – shoppers are looking for both value and values. They are not simply looking for cheaper food in tough times, they also expect the grocery industry to support their moral and ethical values."

One in five (20%) would like a farmers’ market or farm shop
to be established nearby
Drilling down into reasons for supporting local food in particular, most said that it was fresher, but the biggest riser over the last few years has been support for the local economy:
  • 57% said they purchased local food because it has not travelled as far and is therefore fresher
  • 54% wanted to support local producers and farmers (up from 28% in 2006)
  • 34% wanted to support local retailers (18% in 2006)
  • 29% wanted to keep jobs in the local area (up from 14%)

IGD also asked shoppers what improvements they would like to see to their food and grocery shopping experience. Once again, support for locally produced food was up, with 31% saying they would like more local products available to them, compared with 12% in 2005. One in five (20%) would like a farmers’ market or farm shop to be established nearby, up from 15% in 2005.

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Annual submission deadline small pet animal exemptions

News Story 1
 Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.

Submitting this annual return ensures continued compliance with regulatory requirements for products marketed without a full Marketing Authorisation. The exemption specifically applies to products intended for animals, cage birds, terrarium animals, small rodents, ferrets and rabbits.

For further details and submission guidelines, visit the gov.uk website.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'