When you hear about people you know either seriously ill or deceased as a result of COVID-19, it quickly puts everything else in perspective. So while it can at times seem that the restrictions being put on everyday life are somewhat extreme, they are necessary to save lives.

Across the national press, healthcare workers are being rightly praised for the work they are doing on the front line during this pandemic. But we must not forget all the other workers who leave the safety of their homes each day.

Surely it can’t be right that while agri food has stepped up to keep everyone fed, we are seeing processors faced with mounting stocks of goods, and farmers being braced for a significant reduction in prices

As farmers, we must especially acknowledge the people in food processing businesses, transport, and also farm supply businesses who continue to work through this crisis.

But surely it can’t be right that while agri food has stepped up to keep everyone fed, we are seeing processors faced with mounting stocks of goods, and farmers being braced for a significant reduction in prices.

Take the example of beef, with mince selling strongly in supermarkets, but meat plants left with a very limited market for a striploin.

It would traditionally have commanded a high price in restaurants and the catering trade, but with these outlets shut, it is a matter of either taking a very low price or freezing it in the hope for a better day.

The local agri food industry has done its bit to ensure these shops are all well stocked

Over the past month, the UK supermarkets have witnessed record sales, up 20.6% on the same month last year, and presumably profits will also be strong. The local agri food industry has done its bit to ensure these shops are all well stocked, so it is time that the big retailers returned the favour, starting by doing promotions on products other than mince.

In recent years, these supermarket businesses have sought to satisfy consumer trends towards exotic goods and flavours from around the world, while indigenous products are increasingly squeezed.

A realignment is necessary, and COVID-19 means that it needs to start now.

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