Episode 122: Dingley Dell Pork – A Conversation with Mark Hayward on the Future of Farming and Sustainability

In this insightful episode of The Ceres Podcast (Episode 122), host Stelios Theocharousis joined by Mark Hayward of Dingley Dell Pork, a premium pork producer based in the UK. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of Farming, sustainability, and animal welfare, providing an in-depth look at the modern agricultural industry.

Mark and his brother have been running Dingley Dell Pork for over 30 years, transitioning from traditional farming methods to a more welfare-conscious, outdoor-rearing system. This episode takes listeners through his personal journey, from the difficulties of managing a family farm to becoming a trailblazer in the premium pork industry.

Key Themes:

1. The Evolution of Farming: Mark shares the story of his and his brother’s transition from standard commercial Farming to outdoor, welfare-friendly pork production. He highlights the growing importance of animal welfare and how they were at the forefront of adapting to new legislation and consumer demands.

2. The Pressures of the Industry: Throughout the conversation, Mark touches on farmers' financial pressures, particularly in the wake of fluctuating market conditions. He offers a candid look at the challenges that come with being at the mercy of large supermarkets and the volatility of the commodity market. The discussion turns to how Dingley Dell Pork overcame these challenges by creating its brand and establishing a loyal customer base that values quality over price.

3. Farming’s Future and Innovation: With the increasing challenges of labour shortages and the disconnect between urban populations and agriculture, Mark emphasizes the need for innovation in farming practices. He also addresses the importance of making Farming a more attractive career for younger generations, something he believes could be encouraged through better education and government support.

4. Animal Welfare and Consumer Responsibility: Mark and Stelios dive into animal welfare, exploring the ethics behind food production. Mark shares his thoughts on how the UK should ensure that its animal welfare standards are not undermined by cheaper imports and how consumers can play an essential role in supporting ethical Farming by choosing brands that uphold these standards.

Notable Quotes:

• “Farming is in our blood. It’s not just a job; it’s a lifestyle. But it’s also about adapting, innovating, and moving with the times to survive and thrive.”

• “If we’re going to legislate for animal welfare in the UK, we have to ensure those same standards are applied to imported products. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

This episode also takes an intriguing turn when Mark shares his experience with supermarket chains, the difficulty of competing with lower-quality imported products, and the challenges of raising standards in a price-driven market.

Why Listen?

This episode offers hospitality businesses valuable insights into the importance of sourcing ethically produced food and supporting suppliers who prioritize quality and welfare. Mark’s story is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. His commitment to the environment, animal welfare, and sustainability has shaped Dingley Dell Pork into a trusted name in premium pork production.

If you’re involved in the food service industry or simply interested in the future of Farming, this episode is a must-listen. Mark’s pragmatic approach to overcoming industry challenges and his passion for high welfare standards make this discussion both educational and inspiring.

Tune in to The Ceres Podcast for Episode 122 and discover more about the future of sustainable Farming, animal welfare, and the fascinating journey of Dingley Dell Pork. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay updated on more valuable insights for the hospitality industry.

This review should help attract listeners who are interested in Farming, sustainability, and the impact of agriculture on the hospitality sector.