Which Two Senegalese Farms Are Powering the UK's Vegetable Supply?

The emergence of Senegal as a key supplier of fresh produce for the UK, particularly during the winter months, raises important questions about the sustainability and ethics of food imports. With significant crops like corn, green beans, and spring onions being harvested from Senegal's arid landscape, UK consumers may wonder whether this shift is beneficial or detrimental to both nations involved.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Senegal is becoming an increasingly vital source of fresh produce for the UK, particularly in winter months when domestic supply is low. With operations led by British companies like G's Fresh and Barfoots, the country is supplying a range of vegetables, including spring onions, green beans, and sweet corn. This development not only presents opportunities for the UK’s food supply chain but also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such imports, the environmental impact, and the socio-economic implications for Senegal.

Key takeaways

Senegal is now a major supplier of winter vegetables to the UK.
Two British-run farms employ around 9,000 workers in the Saint-Louis region.
Labour costs in Senegal are significantly lower than in the UK, influencing the supply chain.
Transportation of produce from Senegal reduces reliance on traditional sources in Europe and Latin America.
Experts raise concerns about the environmental impact of long-distance food transport.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding how Senegal has emerged as a significant player in the UK's fresh produce market involves tracing key developments over the years:

Early 2000s: French agronomist Michael Laurent identifies Senegal's agricultural potential using satellite imagery.
2005: Establishment of commercial farms in the Saint-Louis region, leveraging the Senegal River for irrigation.
2010-2020: Expansion of farming operations by G's Fresh and Barfoots, employing thousands of local workers.
2021: Increased imports from Senegal due to Brexit and ongoing drought issues in Southern Europe.
2023: Significant quantities of produce shipped to UK supermarkets during winter months.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest reports indicate that the volume of produce imported from Senegal is rising dramatically, with UK supermarkets now relying on it for a substantial portion of their winter vegetable supply. The move appears to be driven by a combination of factors, including lower costs and the need for year-round availability of fresh produce.

What was already established

Previously, much of the UK's fresh produce was sourced from southern Europe and Latin American countries. However, recent years have seen a shift towards West Africa, driven by climate challenges in traditional growing regions and changing supply chain dynamics post-Brexit.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK consumers, the increasing availability of fresh produce from Senegal means more variety, particularly during winter months when local options are limited. However, the reliance on imports raises questions about food security and sustainability.

Businesses and jobs

Businesses in the UK benefit from a steady supply of vegetables, which helps maintain consistent stock in supermarkets. However, this reliance on imports could lead to challenges for local farmers, potentially putting jobs at risk in the UK agricultural sector.

Policy and regulation

The UK government's approach to food imports, particularly post-Brexit, is crucial in shaping these dynamics. As regulations evolve, there may be implications for food safety standards and trade agreements, especially regarding sourcing from countries like Senegal.

Numbers that matter

90%: The percentage of fresh produce imported by the UK during winter months.
9,000: The number of employees working on farms in Senegal, primarily women.
70%: The proportion of produce from Senegal sold in UK supermarkets.
£70 million: The investment made by British companies in Senegalese agriculture.
35°C: The typical temperature during the harvest season in Senegal.

Definitions and jargon buster

Food Miles: The distance food travels from its place of production to the consumer.
Neo-colonialism: A term used to describe the indirect control or influence of a country over another, often through economic means.
West African francs: The currency used in Senegal, abbreviated as XOF.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the short term, consumers can expect to see increased availability of Senegalese produce in supermarkets. Monitoring prices and the variety of vegetables available will be key.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, ongoing discussions about food sourcing and sustainability will likely shape public perception and policy. The impact of climate change on agriculture will also be a significant topic.

Signals to watch

Changes in import regulations or tariffs affecting food from Senegal.
Public reactions and consumer preferences regarding imported versus locally grown produce.
Economic conditions in Senegal and their impact on agricultural output.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about where your food comes from and its environmental impact.
Support local produce when possible to encourage sustainable farming practices.
Consider the benefits of seasonal eating to reduce reliance on imports.

Don’t

Assume all imported produce is of lower quality—evaluate based on freshness and sourcing.
Neglect the socio-economic implications of food imports on producing countries.
Overlook the environmental costs associated with transporting food long distances.

Checklist

Check labels for country of origin when purchasing fresh produce.
Research the sustainability practices of brands you buy from.
Be aware of seasonal availability of UK-grown produce.
Consider joining local food co-ops or community-supported agriculture initiatives.
Evaluate your personal food choices and their environmental impact.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The rapid growth of Senegal's agricultural export sector raises concerns about potential over-reliance on imported food and its implications for local economies. Additionally, environmental issues associated with long-distance transportation and the carbon footprint of shipping must be carefully considered. The ongoing changes in global trade dynamics, particularly in the context of Brexit, further complicate these issues and require careful monitoring.

Bottom line

While the influx of Senegalese produce into the UK presents opportunities for consumers to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables during winter, it also poses significant challenges regarding sustainability, economic equity, and environmental impact. As the UK navigates its new food landscape post-Brexit, the responsibility lies with consumers to make informed choices that balance convenience with ethical considerations.

FAQs

Why is Senegal becoming a key supplier of fresh produce for the UK?

Senegal is becoming a key supplier due to its ability to produce vegetables year-round in a climate that is increasingly attractive as other regions face challenges like droughts.

What are the working conditions like for farm workers in Senegal?

Farm workers in Senegal are generally paid the minimum wage, which is around 2,500 West African francs a day, though bonus payments are available for exceeding targets.

How does importing produce from Senegal impact the UK environment?

Importing produce from Senegal raises concerns about food miles and the associated environmental costs, though sea transport is less harmful than air freight.