UK farmers' market 'complacency'
January 19, 2005
UK farmers' attempts to show consumers their food is sustainably produced may actually mislead them, experts say.
The Sustainable Development Commission says the Little Red Tractor logo fails to set a standard that can lead farmers to improve their practices appreciably.
The logo, used on food produced by UK farmers, is meant to reassure shoppers it is produced to very high standards.
But the commission chairman, Jonathon Porritt, says many farmers are still complacent over winning buyers' trust.
Changes needed
The commission, an independent government adviser, has published a report on the scheme (LRT) and Assured Food Standards, which manages it. The scheme was launched in 2000 by the National Farmers' Union.
The report, Sustainability Implications Of The Little Red Tractor Scheme, calls for improvements to offer better choice for consumers on environment, welfare and nutrition.
The LRT website says: "When you buy food carrying the Little Red Tractor stamp of approval, you can be sure it has been produced to standards that are independently inspected.
Further information can be found on the BBC News Site.
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