Food Inc film night in Hitchin

9 November 2010

Members of the group organised the film night to highlight their ongoing efforts to target=_self>Fix the Food Chain.

Cinematic success

Over 50 people watched the screening held in a local church in Hitchin. The critically-acclaimed documentary Food, Inc. focuses on corporate farming in the United States.

North Herts has a growing number of farmers, small suppliers and independent retailers. To prevent the corporate farming practices in the US coming here, the UK needs to open its eyes.

Tim Waygood, Church Farm, Ardeley

Question time

After the film the audience were given the opportunity to join in, with a discussion panel which included:

• Vicki Hird, Senior Food Campaigner at Friends of the Earth
• Dr Mark Vorster, a local GP
• Tim Waygood, from nearby organic Church Farm

How come you can get two hamburgers for the same price as a head of broccoli?

One of the questions during the discussion.

The lively and informative discussion generated a number of ideas including:

• Countering the spread of corporate farming
• Food-buying groups for people on low incomes
• Food vouchers for farmers' markets.

Supermarket silence

The group invited a representative from Tesco's Corporate Responsibility team to join the panel. But despite sending emails and leaving messages there was no response.

The key is education - you can change things by your personal intervention. Everyone should see this film.

Dr Mark Vorster

Key campaign moment

It's a crucial time for our campaign for planet-friendly farming. MPs are committed to vote in Parliament on a new meat and dairy law on 12 November.

Ask your MP to support the Sustainable Livestock Bill.

Get involved

Find a Friends of the Earth group near you and make a difference where you live.