Scottish Food To Be Celebrated

A year-long celebration of the best in Scottish food has been launched by Tourism Minister Jim Mather.
The Government will provide £500,000 to fund events aimed at promoting Scotland as a land of food and drink.

Events will also encourage more use of local, fresh and seasonal produce within the tourism industry.
Mr Mather said: “The tourism sector is playing a vital role in Scotland’s recovery and was instrumental in our recent return to growth, attracting more than 15 million visitors and having a significant economic impact during the year of Homecoming.

“It makes strong economic sense to build on this success by spotlighting some of Scotland’s greatest assets as we build towards a second year of Homecoming in 2014.”

Scottish produce will be showcased at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh in June, the Dundee Flower and Food Festival in September and the BBC Good Food Show Scotland in October, among other events.
Paul McLaughlin, chief executive of Scotland Food and Drink, said: “The year of food and drink is an excellent platform to help us promote Scotland’s outstanding produce both in the UK and across the world.
“Scotland Food and Drink will be working hard to maximise awareness of the country’s premium products throughout the year.”

Dr Mike Cantlay, chairman of VisitScotland, said: “Scotland has a fantastic natural larder and the year of food and drink is an excellent opportunity to showcase this country’s growing reputation as a world-class culinary destination.”