More than 50 key figures in the oilseeds industry recently gathered to discuss the challenges currently facing the UK crop, as the country experiences its lowest hectarage in four decades.

This week's inaugural 'OSR Reboot' meeting was prompted by concerns raised earlier this year by the grower-owned co-operative United Oilseeds about the crop's future.

Declining yields, difficulties in establishment, the offshoring of neonicotinoid usage, and an uneven playing field have all contributed to significant hurdles for UK growers.

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A total of 57 key stakeholders from 41 companies and organisations, including farmers, breeders, and researchers, participated in the discussion to initiate efforts for a sustainable revival of UK oilseed rape (OSR).

James Warner, managing director of United Oilseeds, kicked off the meeting with a summary of the current OSR landscape.

He highlighted a negative net trade swing of 2 million tonnes — worth nearly £1b —and a decline in food security for edible oils, now below 20%, down from 40%.

Warner also addressed issues such as a reduced supply of pollen and nectar, shortages in animal feed, and the environmental impact of increased imports.

He pointed out that hectarage is at a 40-year low, stating: "We face a pivotal moment for OSR in the UK.”

“It is only through collaboration that we can drive meaningful change—both in the immediate future and for the long term.

"I am deeply passionate about the future of this crop and will be relentless in pushing this agenda forward.

He added: “In the weeks, months, and years ahead, I hope we can build on the momentum from the meeting and work together to transform the prospects of this iconic crop."

Rose Riby, head of combinable crops and seed at the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC), noted that the sector's gathering aimed to find ways to support UK oilseed production.

She said: “The ideas shared in this meeting complement the policy work led by AIC to advocate ways to increase the area grown domestically.

“This is in the face of current challenges, and we look forward to ramping up these efforts over the coming months."