M&S Food & HarperCollins release kids book on food origins

The impact of environmental damage on future generations and healthier eating are issues of increasing concern for UK families.

M&S Food, in partnership with HarperCollins Children’s Books has published Farm to Foodhall, The Magic Ingredient, an educational tool with a focus on sustainability that allows families to explore the origins of food together. 

Marks and Spencer was founded in 1884, is headquartered in London and has a revenue of £10bn. HarperCollins was founded in 1989, is headquartered in New York and has a revenue of US$1.6bn. 

M&S recognises that healthy eating habits and the environment are a concern for families

The first M&S quarterly Family Matters Index report, published in June, highlighted the issues of most importance to families, with environmental impact topping the list of big picture concerns. 

Almost two-thirds of those with children worried about how environmental damage will affect future generations whilst a third spent time together as a family discussing healthier eating habits. 

With families more focused on the environment and health than pre-pandemic, Farm to Foodhall is designed to ignite conversations about how sustainability and ethical consumption can shape the future.  

M&S Food and HarperCollins partner to help children understand the journey of food

The book explores the world of sustainable farming and helps children to better understand the source of their food through:

• Stories 
• Recipes
• Fun facts
• Family activities

“The stories within the book bring to life these relationships in a way that sparks conversations within families who we know are deeply concerned about the impact of environmental damage on future generations”, said Stuart Machin, M&S Food Managing Director. “It will inspire young minds and help children to learn more about where their food comes from, the effort that goes into producing it, and the importance of establishing ethical and sustainable farming practices now and long into the future.” 

Co-created and published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, with words by Linda Chapman and illustrations by Sarah Jennings, the book takes young readers on a journey into the world of sustainable agriculture.

“We are delighted to have worked with Marks & Spencer on a truly collaborative project, creating a book that will not only entertain children but also deliver important learnings on sustainability and the journey of food from farm to foodhall”, said Juliet Matthews, Colour Publisher, HarperCollins Children’s Books. “We have created a book for young readers that we hope will inspire long-lasting conversations about responsible farming and the joys of food prepared with care and love.”

In stores from July the 27th, £5, families can come together to learn how to create a more environmentally friendly future.