Scotland has announced a £1m food education programme to teach young people about Scotland’s food industry and encourage healthy eating.
The Good Food Futures programme will provide children with “a greater understanding of where food comes from and the many career opportunities available in the industry”, the government said.
There will be support for more farm visits and healthy cooking lessons, as well as increased sourcing of “locally produced healthy food” on school menus.
“In introducing more of our produce to children and young people, we will help farmers, food producers, manufacturers and businesses benefit in the longer term too,” said First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The new programme is being delivered in partnership with Education Scotland and Food for Thought, which provides funding to support schools in teaching children about growing and cooking healthy food. The Soil Association, through its Food for Life programme, is also involved.
Willie Macleod, UKHospitality executive director for Scotland, welcomed the initiative. “With obesity increasingly the focus of Scottish government, enhanced education and understanding of food will be crucial to tackling the issue. This is a very positive step from the government to promote Scotland’s fantastic food industry, of which hospitality is a huge part.”
