Step closer towards healthier choices in Scotland

The next steps in supporting the National Policy for Food and Drink to boost healthier and more environmentally sustainable choices in Scotland have been revealed.

The several new measures, announced by cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environmental Richard Lochhead, include a major campaign, led by chef Martin Wishart, to improve the quality and visibility of Scottish produce served in restaurants and pubs, an investigation into Scottish labelling of food and drink to help make it easier for consumers to identify and trust labels, and an inquiry into affordable access to food.

A new Scottish Government catering contract will also be introduced focusing on healthier menus and the procurement of fresh and seasonal produce.

Mr Lochhead explained his aims of this initiative: "I aim to deliver a National Food and Drink Policy which will promote Scotland's sustainable economic growth by ensuring the focus of all food and drink-related activity by Government offers quality, health and wellbeing and sustainability, whilst recognising the need for access to affordable food for all."

"I will be commissioning work under five key themes to take forward the next steps of the policy, including a series of working groups to tackle issues such as healthier eating and sensible drinking, sustainability, labelling, skills and innovation."

These themes include supporting the sustainable economic growth of the food and drink industry, walking the talk – getting Government to lead the way, and affordability, access and security in relation to food. 

Words: Maria Bracken

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