The UK’s Agrifood Strategy: A Mosaic of Opportunities

The UK’s agrifood strategy resembles an intricate mosaic, according to Chris Mitchell, a partner at Bramble Partners and managing partner at its food systems advisory arm, Bramble Intelligence. While all the pieces are present, they still need to be aligned to form a coherent vision.

After over a year of government initiatives surrounding sustainable farming, tackling the obesity crisis, restricting junk food advertisements, and boosting investments in agtech innovation, the potential for a clearer picture seems to be emerging.

“The 10-year health plan, the Good Food Cycle, and various governmental actions regarding farming and nature are all quite promising,” Mitchell remarks. “We are witnessing a convergence of multiple topics like never before.”

Bramble Partners’ Role in the Agrifood Landscape

Bramble Partners primarily invests in Series A to growth-stage businesses that impact the food system, usually focusing on health and environmental benefits. Additionally, Bramble Intelligence aids large food corporations, NGOs, and governments in addressing food system challenges.

Recently, Mitchell shared insights with AgFunderNews, focusing on current trends in food system development and the evolving UK government agrifood strategy.

Key Areas of Excitement

Appetite Suppressants

AFN: What is Bramble most excited about right now in terms of developments in agrifood?

Chris Mitchell: A key area of excitement is the potential expansion of appetite suppressant medications, such as GLP-1 drugs, within the NHS framework. If the current restrictions based on BMI and physician guidelines are eased, we could witness a significant shift in healthcare. With soaring adoption rates, these medications could revolutionize how we address health and diets in the UK.

Mandatory Food Sales Reporting

Another intriguing development is the implementation of mandatory food sales reporting, part of the Good Food Cycle strategy. This initiative pushes companies to re-evaluate their products in terms of nutritional value, specifically regarding fruit and vegetable servings. Retailers are becoming proactive, reformulating products in response to consumer demand for healthier options.

Behavioral Health and Diet Initiatives

AFN: Is the UK government addressing the behavioral aspects of diet and weight loss?

Chris Mitchell: A significant initiative is the proposed NHS app that aims to engage the public by providing essential dietary information.

The Growing Interest in Regenerative Agriculture

AFN: How is regenerative agriculture progressing in the UK?

Chris Mitchell: While the UK lacks an equivalent to the Regenerative Organic Alliance seen in the US, interest in regenerative practices is indeed growing. Retailers are increasingly eager to adopt regenerative practices, although challenges such as dependency on imported fruits and vegetables persist.

Areas of Focus for Bramble

Chris Mitchell: We are currently concentrating on five key factors in the agrifood sector:

• The implications of microbiome research and its relationship with public health.
• Artificial intelligence’s impact on biology, enhancing our understanding of food systems.
• The evolving role of appetite suppressants in healthcare.
• Government initiatives aimed at improving the food system.
• The volatility in global supply chains, driving innovation.

In conclusion, the confluence of these various aspects marks a transformative opportunity within the UK agrifood landscape. As Mitchell affirms, “I can’t remember a time when so many different topics seem to converge simultaneously.”