Choosing the Right Ingredients: The Future for Food in Scotland: Discussion Paper

Foreword

For the first time ever, we are giving everyone in Scotland the opportunity to have their say about what is important to Scots and to Scotland - in terms of the food we produce and the food we consume.

The key ingredients are already to hand. We can build on the worldwide reputation of Scotland's quality produce. We can look at how our food contributes to our domestic economy, and serves markets in the UK, Europe and worldwide. We can consider the impacts of our industry on the environment. We can explore how our food industries - and the communities who provide their raw materials - can grow and flourish in sustainable ways. We can reflect on our food choices and our health outcomes.

To help set the direction for Scotland's first national food policy, we need your input. The Government has no pre-cooked recipe for success. What are the ingredients of a successful food policy for your family, your community, your industry or your organisation? This period of national discussion invites you to put your ideas and thoughts on the table. What do you value in terms of Scotland's food industries, food heritage and food culture?

I would encourage everyone in Scotland to be part of this discussion. I look forward to developing Scotland's first National Food Policy in partnership with you all.

RICHARD LOCHHEAD, MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment