Food and our future

The production of rice, baked beans and melons in the UK suggests a rosy future for the UK’s food self-sufficiency. But, asks Michael Barker, are such crops a sustainable solution or just an exercise in what’s possible?

PICTURES: ALAMY; GETTY IMAGES; LAWRENCE LOOI; JAMIE SMART ...

They’re in our fridges, freezers, cupboards and takeaways. In fact, according to studies, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) make up 53% of people’s average energy intake. And now experts warn they could le

Low hay yields and higher prices are causing issues for some owners as the UK goes through a wet winter period

IN THE U.S., HOME PRICES HAVE SHOT up about 45% since 2020, more than twice the typical rate of appreciation. In the U.K., household energy bills are 52% higher than their prepandemic level. And in co

IT MAY BE 2026, BUT MANY HARD-WON RIGHTS FOR WOMEN ARE UNDER THREAT. WE ASK GROUNDBREAKING ACTIVISTS, STORYTELLERS AND A NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNER HOW TO MAINTAIN HOPE AND EFFECT CHANGE, EVEN WHEN THE WAY FORWARD IS UNCLEAR