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Councils should set up "food resilience teams" to assess the risk Brexit poses to provision and supply in their areas, experts have said.

Authorities will have a role to play as the "local voice and ears" to help limit the risk of social disorder, which has been brought on by food supply problems in the past, according to a document drawn up by food policy specialists from the University of London, University of Sussex and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH).

There was wide agreement within local authorities that some level of preparation for food supply after Brexit is both possible and sensible, according to the document.

The document, sent to every council in the UK, suggests the food resilience teams should map existing systems in their regions, conduct rapid assessments of where risks and potential disruptions lie, clarify the limits to stockpiling and be prepared to convey this information to the Government and public.

(Image: Getty)

It highlights local authorities' responsibility for the enforcement of food safety and standards regulation, but warns they have "not been given enough advice".

According to the notice, every form of Brexit will affect the food system in some way, particularly a no-deal scenario.

It highlights several food risks, including price changes, reduced availability, lower standards and safety, supply disruption, border delays, freight logistics and public disorder.

Tony Lewis, head of policy at CIEH, said: "Local authorities have been asking us for practical advice on how to prepare for a food Brexit - this document contains that advice."

Professor Tim Lang, of the Centre for Food Policy at City, University of London, said: "Setting up food resilience teams is something practical local authorities can do. These should map local food system risks and help set public protection priorities."

Erik Millstone, professor of science policy at the University of Sussex, said: "The impact of Brexit on food supplies will depend on where people live.

"Those furthest from Channel ports will be at greatest risk of shortages, which is important for local authorities because their locations will make big differences."