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Shoppers asked for views on food
14/03/2008
Supermarkets across Scotland are to ask shoppers for their views on food, as part of the national food discussion.
Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's and Waitrose have all agreed to distribute the food discussion leaflets over the next month.
The leaflets, which highlight the various ways people can contribute to the first-ever food policy for Scotland, will be available in supermarkets across the country from next week.
Launching the leaflet today, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead said:
"We want the freshest, finest future for Scotland's food - supporting Scottish food is in our national interest.
"We are forging positive and fruitful working relationships with supermarkets in Scotland, and as the main source of food for the vast majority of Scots it is vitally important they participate in our national discussion.
"We are looking for views from people across the country to contribute to a future food policy for Scotland.
Getting the food leaflet into supermarkets is an ideal opportunity to raise these issues whilst food is at the very forefront of shoppers minds.
"We want to know what is important to the Scottish consumer when buying food? What are the barriers to accessing healthy, affordable, Scottish food? Whatever peoples' views, we want them to visit the National Food Discussion web pages and have their say on food."
People are invited to go to the food blog, read what those who have already responded to the discussion have said, and submit their own contribution.
The leaflet is also available in libraries and doctors surgeries. It is printed on recycled paper.
The food discussion runs until April 25, 2008.
The Scottish Government is aware that supermarkets are already stocking and promoting Scottish produce and are in continued discussions to maintain positive working relations. A supermarket summit is due to be held later this year.