ATHLETES taking part in the London Olympics must be fed pork and pork products produced to UK standards says the British Pig Executive (BPEX).

The 2012 games present London with an exceptional opportunity to show its food culture and economy to a world audience, an opportunity to which BPEX would like to contribute.

The comments come in a response to the Mayor of London's draft Food Strategy which will run until 2016 .

BPEX Trade Sector Manager, Foodservice, Tony Goodger said: "We believe London's Food Strategy must present a clear policy to underlie production and supply for the 2012 Olympics.

"Feeding both participants and spectators is likely to be outsourced to one or more of the large foodservice companies and that the adoption of London's Food Strategy should form part of the criteria for businesses wishing to undertake the contract.

"This should satisfy environmental and other considerations and accord with national strategies for regional sourcing of food.

"This food should demonstrate its quality by a requirement for it to comply with recognised, independently audited, whole chain quality assurance standards such as the QSM for pork, bacon and ham.

"The Olympics are an opportunity for London to present itself as one of the world's leading cities in terms of its support for sustainability, value and quality in a consumer-led food supply chain.

"BPEX wishes to be part of this visible support and will be happy to work with all food businesses and food service contractors operating to achieve London's vision."

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