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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Phoebe Weston

Insect decline a threat to fruit crops and food security, scientists warn MPs

A bee lands on apple blossom in Cornwall.
A bee lands on apple blossom in Cornwall, but the crucial job it performs is being undermined. Photograph: Ross Hoddinott/The National Trust Photolibrary/Alamy

Fruit growers in the UK are already seeing less yield and lower-quality produce because of the loss of insects, scientists have told MPs, warning that a further loss of pollinators could have “significant” impacts on all crops.

As part of a parliamentary inquiry into insect decline and UK food security, Prof Simon Potts from the University of Reading told MPs at the science, innovation and technology committee that there is already good evidence of a shortfall of pollinators and a threat to food production.

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