The Old Bakery's Provenance Pledge

As well as being the only not-for-profit restaurant in Lincolnshire, at the Old Bakery we’re incredibly passionate about food provenance.  

For those that don’t know, it’s perhaps important to highlight what food provenance actually is. For most, it would refer to knowing the origin, journey, and production methods of what we eat. However, for us at the restaurant, it’s simply placing importance on the county of Lincolnshire and our mission to showcase the best that the area has to offer. 

In recent years, food provenance has become increasingly important to consumers, producers, and policymakers as awareness around sustainability, health, and ethical standards. By taking the time to put emphasis on this as a business, we hope that this provides transparency and reassurance about the quality, safety, and values behind our food. 

One of the key reasons provenance matters is trust. With global food supply chains often stretching across continents, it can be difficult to know exactly where food has come from or how it was produced.  

Our supplier, Premier Seafood - From the ocean to the market and to our tables.

Pictured Cured Salmon being prepared and presented by one of our students

Provenance also plays a crucial role in food safety. When supply chains are transparent, contaminated or unsafe products can be quickly traced and removed from the market. This traceability reduces the risks of widespread foodborne illness and improves consumer confidence in regulatory systems.

Knowing the provenance in general allows individuals to align their purchases with their values—whether that means choosing local produce to reduce carbon footprints, or selecting certified products that guarantee fair trade conditions. 

It all ends with you, the customer and ultimately, your culinary enjoyment. Understanding the story of an ingredient, particularly locally, meaning the Lincolnshire soil, what methods are used to grow it and the ethos and mission of the local producer, matters hugely.   

Food provenance is not just about where food comes from; it is about trust, safety, ethics, sustainability, and culture.  

When you’re next dining with us, come and ask about our ingredients, we’ll be more than pleased to fill you in on our relationship with producers of Lincolnshire’s best food, drink and produce.