UK Food Policy History: Economic, Social and Political Influences

This book provides an overview of the history of food policy in the UK, tracing economic, social and political influences from the 1840s to present day.

In order to understand current food policies and the current food system, it is necessary to acknowledge the past influences that have led us to the present. Seeing food policy as a complex web of influences, this book traces food policy development from the period of public health reform during the 1840s, the impact of two world wars, the era of new food choices in the 1950s and 1960s, the beginnings of alternative food movement in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, to the modern and postmodern ages of consumer ethics and fair trade. It critically identifies the key influences across the different eras, both direct and indirect and formal and informal, as well as the key actors, and showcases how understanding the socio-political contexts supports our comprehension of food policy development and its adaptation to modern times. Following this roadmap, the book sets out the challenges ahead and discusses ways forward for a pragmatic and effective UK food policy that learns the lessons of the past.

This book provides an important introduction to the history of UK food and agricultural policy for students, scholars, policymakers and professionals, as well as those interested in food systems, public health and social policy more widely

Martin Caraher is Emeritus Professor of food and health policy at the Centre for Food Policy at City, University of London, UK. He was a member of the original London Food Board and of 2012 London Olympic Food Group. He is co-author of Food Policy in the United Kingdom (Routledge, 2023)

Sinéad Furey is a Senior Lecturer of Food Business and Innovation and is the Strategic Lead for Food Policy at Ulster University Business School, Ireland. She previously worked in food and consumer policy roles for the Consumer Council, Education and Training Inspectorate, and the Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland. She is co-author of Food Policy in the United Kingdom (Routledge, 2023)