British Food Fortnight is an annual event that celebrates the diverse and delicious cuisine of the United Kingdom. It provides a platform to showcase British food and drink producers, promote local and seasonal ingredients, and encourage consumers to support British businesses. Love British Food has announced the 23rd edition of BFF will take place from 20th September to 6th October 2024. One of the highlights of this year’s event is the Great British Pie Competition. To enter, contestants must submit a homemade pie that showcases the best of British ingredients. The pie can be sweet or savoury, but it must be unique and delicious!

History and Organising Bodies

British Food Fortnight was established in 2001 by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA). The event aims to raise awareness of the importance of British food and drink, and to highlight the quality and sustainability of UK products.

Over the years, this event has grown in popularity and become a staple of the UK’s culinary calendar. It is now supported by a wide range of organisations, including:

Love British Food: The main organiser of British Food Fortnight. They work with various businesses, organisations, and individuals to promote British food and drink

Morrisons: The Official Retail Partner of British Food Fortnight. They offer various activities and promotions related to British food.

National Association of Care Catering (NACC): The NACC is involved in organising events and promoting British food in care homes

The Craft Guild of Chefs: The Guild is involved in promoting British food and encouraging chefs to use British ingredients

The Sustainable Restaurant Association (The SRA): The SRA works with restaurants to promote sustainable food practices and supports British Food Fortnight.

The University Catering Organisation (TUCO): TUCO is involved in promoting British food in university catering

Local Authority Caterers Association (LACA): LACA works with local authorities to promote British food in school and community catering.

Hospital Caterers Association (HCA): HCA is involved in promoting British food in hospital catering.

How to Get Involved

British Food Fortnight offers a fantastic opportunity for commercial catering businesses, such as pubs, hotels, and restaurants, to showcase their support for British food and drink. Here are some ways to get involved:

Develop limited-time menus that feature British ingredients and classic dishes. This can help attract new customers and highlight your commitment to British cuisine.

Collaborate with local farmers, butchers, and brewers to source high-quality ingredients and support the local economy.

Host cooking demonstrations, tastings, or talks to educate customers about British food and drink. This can help increase engagement and build brand loyalty.

Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share behind-the-scenes content, highlight local producers, and promote your special offers.

Many cities and towns host food festivals during British Food Fortnight. Consider participating to reach a wider audience and showcase your business.

Want to show some love for British food and drink? Join in on British Food Fortnight! Support local producers, whip up some tasty dishes, and give your customers a great dining experience.