The feasibility study, funded by Research England, highlights food as a critical but under-coordinated driver of health, productivity and inclusive growth. The research brings together insights from 56 survey responses and 22 in-depth interviews with representatives from across South Yorkshire’s food system, including local government, industry, community organisations, and academia. The findings reveal widespread backing for a coordinated approach to food policy and practice that would help local producers, businesses, and communities work together more effectively.
This study is a collaboration between the Advanced Food Innovation Centre and Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University and the Institute for Sustainable Food at the University of Sheffield.
The researchers argue that improving diets is not only crucial for public health but also for economic productivity and regional prosperity. Diet-related conditions are a major cause of chronic illness and economic inactivity, costing the UK economy an estimated £74 billion annually, including an estimated £1.2 billion impact on South Yorkshire.
The report highlights that a healthier, more sustainable food system could boost participation in the workforce, support small and micro food businesses, and help reduce the region’s productivity gap – turning better diets into a driver of inclusive economic growth.
Amanda Johnston, Co-Director (Innovation) at the Advanced Food Innovation Centre, said: “Food sits at the intersection of health, the economy and sustainability, yet efforts to improve the system are often fragmented. This study marks only the beginning. While it has given us a positive mandate to move forward, there is still significant work ahead. But if we build the network well, we can unlock major economic potential for South Yorkshire, improve the health and wellbeing of its citizens, and strengthen the sustainability of our food production system.
The report recommends the establishment of a South Yorkshire Food Network to:
- Create a cohesive platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Amplify the voice of small and micro food businesses.
- Coordinate regional initiatives to improve food access, security, and sustainability.
- Support innovation and fairer access to markets across the food supply chain.
However, the report also identifies key challenges including affordability, staff and infrastructure shortages, and an under-developed policy environment. It warns that the network must be built around delivery, accountability and measurable impact.
The report sets out a series of recommendations, including commissioning a detailed delivery blueprint, appointing a cross-sector Network Steering Group, securing multi-year blended funding, and establishing metrics to track progress.
