National food policy on menu for Scotland

There will be a National Food Debate in the New Year that will sample the views of experts and consumers across the country. Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment Richard Lochhead said the Government aims to bring efforts together in a more joined up, collaborative way of working on food issues.

"Food is a vitally important issue which impacts on many aspects of Scottish life - health, business and environment. Of all the subjects I've discussed with farmers, fishermen, restaurateurs, retailers and consumers, none evokes more passion than food, in particular the high quality produce from Scotland's farms, seas and food manufacturers,” Lochhead said.

He believes a national food policy will help to ensure that fresh, high quality and healthy Scottish food is the first choice on everyone's menu.

“We want to ensure a more effective supply chain, where producers have closer links to their customers' right through the food chain including supermarkets and restaurants.

“I call upon everyone in Scotland with an interest in food to contribute to this debate, which will help to form a future food policy," he said.