What is the environmental impact of the UK’s most popular dishes?

It is estimated that 30% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions stem from food-system emissions. Given that food production is a primary contributor to the surge in greenhouse gases, it is imperative to recognise which of our beloved foods carry the highest carbon footprint.

The collective greenhouse gases emitted from food are projected to amount to 2.2 tonnes of CO2 per person annually. When considering the processes involved in food cultivation, processing, transportation, distribution, and preparation, it becomes evident how substantial an impact food production can have on the environment.

Here at Alliance Online, we scrutinised 15 of the UK’s favourite meals and desserts to ascertain which ones possess the highest carbon footprint.

Which meal has the highest carbon footprint?

Steak and ale pie emerged as the frontrunner, generating the most carbon emissions, with 48,664g of CO2e required to produce the quintessential British dish, equating to 6,083g of CO2e per portion.

According to our findings, preparing a steak and ale pie every week for a year would equate to travelling 16,482.3km—the same distance as flying from London Heathrow to JFK nine times!

The classic Sunday roast, roast beef and Yorkshire puddings, secured second place with 14,419g of CO2e produced. Crafting this dish weekly for a year is akin to flying from London Heathrow to the Algarve and back.

In third place was the quintessential British fare of fish, chips, and mushy peas, with 5,802g of CO2e.

Which dessert has the highest carbon footprint?

Of all the desserts analysed, spotted dick emerged as the least carbon-efficient sweet treat, emitting 2,275g CO2e.

Reflecting on the findings, Rachael Kiss from Alliance Online commented:
“It’s disconcerting to witness our study revealing the significant carbon emissions associated with our favourite meals, with steak and ale pie claiming the top spot.

To address this on a daily basis, incremental changes can be implemented. Start by cultivating your own fruits or vegetables or opt for locally sourced produce. Purchasing food locally can diminish your carbon footprint by reducing transportation emissions and supporting sustainable farming practices within your vicinity. Businesses can adapt by procuring British seasonal produce and adjusting menus to align with the seasons, as this necessitates fewer resources for cultivation and preservation.”

In summary

So, where do we stand with our food choices now? It is time to patronise local markets and select British seasonal produce to mitigate the carbon footprint linked with transportation. By doing so, you will bolster local farmers while relishing fresher and more nutritious fare!

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