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A new era for UK organic cereals
Strong prospects for organic arable in 2022
Increasing numbers of farmers are considering transitioning to more regenerative practices, including organic farming. For the arable sector the continued growth in demand for organic food (4-7% annual growth since 2014) is underpinning rising demand for organic crops grown either for human consumption or livestock feed. This is coinciding with an increased imperative to source more locally, especially for the organic protein portion of diets.
A New Era For UK Organic Cereals
A handbook for arable farmers and advisors
Contributors: Liz Bowles (Associate Director of Farming, Soil Association), Jerry Alford (Senior Farming Advisor, Soil Association), Adrian Steele (Organic Sector Development Advisor, Soil Association) and Beth Kelsey (Business Development Manager, Farming, Soil Association Certification)
This new 2022 report sets out the current opportunities and challenges facing organic arable farming. It makes the financial case to farmers and their advisors who are considering organic production.
Continued strong UK demand for organic dairy and poultry—sectors with the highest demand for animal feedstuffs—has created a structural imbalance within the UK which is driving increased dependence on imports of organic animal feedstuffs. Alongside this, global demand is rising, leading to increased prices. This presents a significant opportunity for arable farmers to convert to organic production to supply this growing market.Adrian Steele, Organic Sector Development Advisor
In this section...
For me, successful organic arable farming is about timing and planning. There are no ‘get out of jail free cards’! From preparing for the rotation, thinking about the soil, selecting the right varieties, through to using the most effective crop establishment kit to ensure seeds are in the right place—all elements are essential. It’s much easier to think it through first than find remedies later.Paul Dovey Goodwood Farm