Food for thought as minister unveils Scots labelling plan

AN investigation into "Scottish" labelling of food and drink was announced by Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead today.

He said a working group would look at possible labelling systems to make it easier for consumers to opt for home-produced goods.

Speaking at the Royal Highland Show at Ingliston, Mr Lochhead also announced top Edinburgh chef Martin Wishart is to lead a campaign to improve the quality and visibility of Scottish produce served in Scotland's restaurants and pubs.

The initiatives come as the Scottish Government prepares to get the country's first national food and drink policy up and running by next year.

Mr Lochhead said Scotland's first Cooking Bus would tour the country, teaching healthy, practical cooking skills to pupils, parents and community groups.

He said a new Scottish Government catering contract would lead by example with greater emphasis on healthier menus, and the procurement of fresh and seasonal produce.

And he announced an inquiry into affordable access to food.

Mr Lochhead said: "The time is right for a fresh new future for Scottish food and drink. We have listened to the people of Scotland and they have told us what their priorities are – health and nutrition, education, local food and local economies.

"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."

"I know that government alone cannot bring about a change in attitude towards food and drink – winning over the hearts and minds of the people of Scotland will be key. Working together with consumers and the food and drink industry, I am confident we can achieve the freshest, finest future for Scottish food and drink."

The Scottish Retail Consortium, welcomed today's announcements. SRC director Fiona Moriarty said: "This strategy rightly stresses the importance of the food sector to Scotland's people and economy and the need to bring together the key stakeholders within the Scottish food supply chain."

Farmers leader in NFU Scotland said there were four key areas which must be addressed by the Government – sustainable farm-gate prices, immediate action on fuel costs, a reduction in red tape and clear and consistent labelling of Scottish products.

President Jim McLaren said the proposals announced by Mr Lochhead were "exciting and ambitious".