Food affects the daily lives of all those living in Scotland. It is very important to our public health, the wellbeing of our communities, the strength of our economy and the sustainability of our environment.
We aim to support and grow our food and drink industry, and to work with participants to ensure it has a positive influence on public health, environmental sustainability and the local, national and international reputation of Scottish food.
Actions
We are improving Scotland's food and drink offering by:
- implementing the Good Food Nation policy
- supporting the food and drink industry
- investing in food and drink education and wellbeing in schools
- extending the provision of balanced and nutritious free school meals
- promoting sustainable production and procurement
- working towards a Scotland where everyone eats well and has a healthy weight
- reducing food waste
Background
Scotland’s farming, fishing, food and drink sector is a £15 billion industry, employing around 120,000 people and reaches into all parts of Scotland’s communities. The footprint of the industry is spread across Scotland in remote, rural and island communities and our support for the industry is key factor in stimulating and sustaining the rural economy.
Our national food and drink policy encompasses the impact of food and drink on health, the environment, social justice, education and the economy in Scotland and aims to build a 'Good Food Nation' where people benefit from and take pride and pleasure in the food they produce, buy, cook, serve and eat.
Bills and legislation
The Schools (Health Promotion and Nutrition) Act 2007 sets high nutritional standards for all food and drink provided in schools.
The Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act 2022 provides the legislative framework that enables us to take steps towards realising our vision for Scotland to be a Good Food Nation.
We have published the following regulations and guidance to assist local authorities, schools and caterers in providing healthy and high-quality food for school children:
- The Nutritional Requirements for Food and Drink in Schools (Scotland) Regulations 2020
- Healthy eating in schools: guidance 2020
Contact
Email: goodfoodnation@gov.scot
Telephone: Central Enquiries Unit - 0300 244 4000
Post:
Scottish Government
Food, Drink and Rural Communities
B1 Spur
Saughton House
Broomhouse Drive
Edinburgh
EH11 3XD