Nuclear power plant pledges to source 80% of food locally

Managers of the project to construct a nuclear power plant in Suffolk, called Sizewell C, have set a target to locally source 80% of the food provided to the site workforce.

Sizewell C says the new target would represent a substantial regional investment, with about 7,900 workers on site at peak construction.

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It is estimated that the cumulative food and product value will amount to just under £60m over the 12-year construction period, due to begin in 2024.

Sizewell C site delivery director Damian Leydon said: “Suffolk is well-known for being a foodie county, and it’s a no-brainer for us to tap into and support local suppliers and local produce.

“It’s an ambitious target, and we’ll always have to balance our local preference with the need to provide affordable meals for the team on-site.

“But we’ve got a clear plan in place and we’re looking forward to working with the many excellent suppliers and producers in the region to deliver quality catering for Sizewell C.”

To help achieve the new target, Sizewell C will source a range of products from regional growers, producers, and roasteries.

This would include produce such as apples, pears, strawberries, carrots, potatoes, onions, eggs, bacon, sausages, pork, sugar, coffee and bakery items.

Catering produce would meet best practice food standards, covering key certifications and schemes, such as British Lion Mark (eggs), Marine Stewardship Council (fish), and British Red Tractor (meat and poultry), and also include Fairtrade wherever possible.

Local area has been defined as within a 75-mile radius of the Sizewell C site.