Why we should look out for the iconic Red Tractor symbol when buying our food

Jessica Sloss, Industry Communications Manager at Red Tractor, tells why we should be looking out for the iconic symbol when buying our food

• Tell us about your background; did you grow up around agriculture?

I was born in London and my family doesn’t really have a link to agriculture so I didn’t grow up around it at all. It’s a personal interest that I have developed, and my decision to work in agriculture is purely based on my passion for it. Some people are interested in fashion or music; I suppose my call was agriculture.

• Describe your role at Red Tractor

It’s really difficult to describe as every day is different and I work on such varied tasks and projects. One day I’ll be out at a member’s farm, the next, I might be in my office developing new standards for our members.

• Tell us about the organisations concept

Red Tractor is the largest food assurance scheme in the UK. It ensures the food you buy is traceable, safe to eat and has been produced responsibly; from farms to fork!

Food and drink bearing the Red Tractor mark has been produced to some of the most comprehensive and respected standards in the world. The Union Jack in the logo shows that the food has been farmed, processed and packed in the UK. It certifies standards throughout the food chain, covering animal welfare, safety and traceability, in short, the Red Tractor is a sign of quality food you can trust!

• Why is it important for us to look out for the Red Tractor logo?

Red Tractor covers an extensive range of products, including meat and poultry, dairy, cereals and fruit and vegetables, it’s a simple way to be sure about where your food comes from. The logo is featured on over £12bn worth of food and we assure over 61,000 farms, ensuring the food that consumers are buying is traceable, safe to eat and has been responsibly produced.

• What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

I like the variety of the job. Every day is different and that keeps it interesting. My highlight so far was meeting Prince Harry at the Suffolk Show this year. I knew he was going to be there but I just happened to be in the right place at the right time to speak to him!

• Have you always wanted to work within the agricultural industry?

Farming has always been at the back of my mind. Agriculture is such an important part of survival. It doesn’t matter if the economy is doing well or if we’re in a recession, one thing is for sure – we’re always going to need food!

• What is the ultimate Hampshire product that you couldn’t live without?

Apple juice from Leckford – the Waitrose farm. It’s refreshing and not too sweet, an important part of my morning routine!

***

Jessica Sloss’s Favourites

• Favourite Hampshire restaurant: The Oat Sheaf in Fleet, it’s a lovely pub that does really nice food.

• Favourite Hampshire walk: Around fleet pond, I find this walk to be really peaceful.

Favourite place to stay:

• Shepherd’s Court Bed & Breakfast, it’s beautifully set in a Red Tractor assured farm in Chawton.

• Best place for tea and cake in Hampshire: It has to be my house, cosy and convenient!

• Favourite place for a glass of wine: The Oat Sheaf in Fleet.

--------------------------------------------------

Read on