UK more likely to buy British produce during pandemic

New figures show that lockdown has had a positive effect on the nation’s cooking habits with Northern Ireland coming out on top.

A survey released by the Stilton Cheese Makers Association (SCMA), which represents the UK’s Stilton producers, revealed that 65 per cent of British consumers are much more likely to buy British produce to support farmers during COVID-19.

Over half of consumers said they would favour British cheese instead of French of Italian cheeses at this time.

The results also revealed that over two thirds of Brits are cooking meals from scratch more regularly after previously preferring ready meals and takeaways.

The newfound enthusiasm for cooking rises to 76 per cent among 18 – 24 year olds with Northern Ireland reporting the biggest uptake in home cooking at 77 per cent.

“Despite the frustrations of lockdown as we combat Covid-19, the upside is that we are all cooking more food from scratch, trying new recipes and experimenting with new ingredients,” Robin Skailes, chairman of the SCMA and Director of Cropwell Bishop Creamery. “We are encouraging consumers to start using Stilton as a versatile ingredient which can inspire and brighten up everyday dishes – from soups to souffles, sandwiches to burgers.”

Sales of the UK’s most popular blue cheese, Stilton, have dropped by 30 per cent during the coronavirus crisis.

To protect such an important part of the UK’s cheese-making heritage, the SCMA is calling on consumers to buy Stilton® rather than continental blue cheese, reminding them that it is as versatile as any blue cheese from France or Italy.

To find out more about Stilton and some inspiring recipe ideas, visit the SCMA’s website