Episode 4: Energy crisis and the return of good week, bad week

In episode four, we speak to Rauri Cairns, director of risk management and European operations at Open Energy Market, to discuss energy, how we can keep on producing food efficiently and the regulations manufacturers need to be mindful of.

This exclusive interview follows reports that the food production is responsible for 30% of global energy consumption and over a third of greenhouse gas emissions to date. By 2030, it’s estimated the food and drink sector will need 45% more energy.

Labour market

There’s also a risk energy prices are introducing to the labour market – if the energy challenges do persist, it’s expected that 42% of business will spend less on recruitment, 38% would decrease spending on salaries, overtime and bonuses, and 37% would reduce spend on staff training and development.  

This month’s podcast also sees the return of Good Week, Bad Week, a throwback to an older video segment on FoodManufacture.co.uk where we talk about some of the big wins experienced by the industry and the major challenges making the headlines.

Farm to Fork

We also discuss the Government’s recent Farm to Fork Summit and whether it’s better to spend more time educating consumers to make better sustainability choices, or if regulation should force their hands.

Meanwhile, don’t forget to check out last month’s podcast,​​ where we catch up with some of the hottest new apprentices in the industry and the people shepherding the next generation of food and drink professionals.

You can also listen to all episodes of the new look podcast, as well as a host of interviews with influential leaders in the food and beverage sector, on the Food Manufacture Spotify page. ​ ​