WIREDGOV

A scheme that aims to put more fresh, seasonal, local and organic food on the menu, Food for Life, has been awarded almost £775,000 from the Scottish Government.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead visited the Soil Association today at the Royal Highland Show where he announced funding as part of the Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation (FPMC) award. The Soil Association are taking forward the Food for Life initiative.

Food for Life Scotland is one of the Soil Association Scotland’s key programmes of work, supported by the Scottish Government since 2008. A major strand of Food for Life Scotland’s work is to support caterers in Scotland to achieve the Soil Association’s Catering Mark. This is a UK-wide certification scheme recognising a caterer’s commitment to serving good, healthy and sustainable food. 

While visiting the Soil Association Mr Lochhead said:

“The Royal Highland Show is always a great opportunity to showcase Scotland’s food and drink sector. I am delighted that the Soil Association’s project focuses on health, education and the environment whilst also promoting quality fresh seasonal produce.

“Food and drink is one of Scotland’s greatest success stories thanks to our amazing raw ingredients that are produced from our natural larder. Scottish food and drink exports are at a record high and this investment will help this important industry to continue to grow and enhance our reputation in overseas markets.

Background

The FPMC awards have provided over £30 million pounds since their launch in 2008 and have provided funding for over 130 Scottish projects.