The Government said it wants to give people more choice and support UK farmers.
Consumers may soon see a change in food labelling that would say when imported goods do not meet UK welfare standards, with the Government discussing with retailers a “buy British button” on supermarket websites.
At the Oxford Farming Conference, Environment Secretary Steve Barclay will make announcements on proposals that include consistent labelling for food produced to the highest standards.
He intends to hold a consultation on ideas to clarify food labels, such as emphasising when imported goods don’t adhere to UK welfare requirements, in order to provide consumers with additional information at the point of sale.
Mr Barclay will also speak with major online retailers about ways of helping customers to understand where their food comes from, including the option of a “buy British button” on websites.
The newly-appointed Cabinet minister will also announce significant changes to the UK’s farming support schemes, in the biggest shake-up since leaving the EU.
Mr Barclay says: “British farmers take pride in producing food that meets, and often exceeds, our world-leading animal welfare and environmental standards.
“British consumers want to buy this top-quality food, but too often products produced to lower standards overseas aren’t clearly labelled to differentiate them.
“This is why I am proud to announce that we will consult on clearer food labelling so we can tackle the unfairness created by misleading labelling and protect farmers and consumers.”
Additionally, ministers are planning to expand the Educational Access programme in an effort to get more youth interested in learning about forestry, farming, food production, and wildlife.