Highland And Islands Food Producers Asked To Join National Discussion

3rd February 2008

Food producers in the Highlands and Islands are being encouraged to join the national discussion on the future of Scotland's food.

At the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Forum, Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead urged people in the area to get involved in the development of a national food policy.

He said: "I have been struck by the food revolution that is taking place the length and breadth of Scotland especially the Highlands and Islands. And of all the subjects within my portfolio, none evokes more passion that food.

"The food and drink sector in the Highlands and Islands generates sales in excess of £600 million each year and supports over 10,000 jobs across the region.

"A healthy future for the industry contributes to a sustainable economic growth in Scotland.

"Since coming into office I have had the opportunity of visiting a number of excellent food businesses and primary producers in the Highlands and Islands.

"I was astounded but delighted to learn that some butchers in England will only sell Orkney Gold beef because of the consistently high quality of the meat being supplied.

"Other success stories from the area include the Really Garlicky company who grow in both turnover and reputation each year and Mey Selections, whose brand is now sold across the UK and is in high demand after only a couple of years on the market.

"And we must not forget the well tried and trusted products such as Stornoway black pudding and seafood from our coastal communities.

"Earlier this month I launched a national discussion on food. It will help us develop a national food policy that is designed to boost jobs and business, help make food healthier and to minimise the environmental impacts of food production, manufacture and retail.

"We want the freshest, finest future for Scottish food. Supporting food production and manufacturing in Scotland is in our national interest.

"I believe our food policy will help ensure that fresh, high quality Scottish food is the first choice on everyone's menu.

"It is vital that all those in the Highlands and Islands with an interest in food get involved in the national discussion we are having on food."

National Food Discussion - Have Your Say at -
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/Food-Industry