The deal, said to be the first of its kind in the UK, will mean that British Quality Pigs/Dalehead Foods will source its wheat and barley through the farmer-owned co-operative, Openfield, from within a 50-mile radius of the mill used to manufacture pig feed.

It is hoped the reduced transport needs will improve the carbon footprint of the meat produced and strengthen Waitrose's partnership with British farmers. Farmers Weekly Interactive reports that the supermarket is the only major UK retailer to source all of its pork from RSPCA Freedom Foods-accredited British pigs.

"High animal welfare is paramount and so is an efficient supply chain. This initiative will further strengthen its efficiency and underpin its sustainability," said Waitrose's Heather Jenkins.