Stephen Farrell Senior Digital Staff Writer

2 Jul 2019

HECK FOOD PLANS VERTICAL FARM

North Yorkshire sausage making company Heck Food has revealed plans for a new vertical farm as part of the latest phase of its innovation programme.

The company is aiming to create a 'Silicon Valley of Food in the Vale of York'. The 'Foogle' project, builds on Heck's entrepreneur programme, expanding into agritech and sustainability.

As part of the launch, Heck will build a new vertical farming facility, initially to grow basil and other herbs to be used in its Chicken Italia range.

Heck will also open a new facility alongside its visitor centre, showcasing the latest in food and farming innovation.

Rishi Sunak, minister for communities and MP for Richmond, visited Heck to hear of its plans. He said: "It's companies like Heck that are really putting Yorkshire on the map as a county of excellence for food and growth.

"I was very excited to hear about all their plans for innovation and sustainability and believe that Heck really are at the forefront of food and future farming in the UK, while creating an massive innovation and income boost to Yorkshire.

"The plans for vertical farming is hugely exciting as this method is precise, time-efficient and waste-free method of growing and will provide inspiration for other producers looking for future food innovation."

Debbie Keeble, co-founder of Heck Food, added: "We are farmers turned producers but now we are able to look to the future of agriculture and how we drive our business forward.

"There are huge benefits to vertical farming – no pesticides or herbicides, less water, no transport, less food waste, higher production, better shelf life – the list is endless.

"Our aim is to be able to produce a wide range of leafy veg and herbs that we can use across the range, delivering tasty flavours from farm, to factory, to plate."

Heck is applying for an innovation grant to fund part of the £500,000 needed to set up the project.