Celebration of Scotland’s Produce Kicks Off

The SFDF runs from 3th until 18th September and sing the praises of the passionate people involved in Scotland’s food industry. To represent the eclectic range of occupations in the sector, the fortnight was launched by a fishmonger, butcher, rapeseed oil producer, fresh produce supplier, cheesemaker, venison supplier, baker and chef.

Scotland has been hailed as the Land of Food and Drink due to its prolific output, with the celebrated producers, retailers, farmers and fishermen contributing to the country’s £14.3bn industry. Chefs, producers, retailers, caterers, hoteliers, schools and foodies are all encouraged to get involved in the SFDF celebrations, with plenty of events taking place over the course of the fortnight to promote the nation’s artisan food and drink.

To highlight the profile of the country’s lamb, a Love Lamb Week initiative was also announced from 1st until 7th September to coincide with the SFDF. This UK-wide collective push is aimed to encourage greater appreciation of the meat and how tasty, nutritious and simple to use it is, whilst at the same time supporting local producers and helping to boost the industry.

Fiona Richmond, the Scotland Food & Drink project manager said, “SFDF is the perfect opportunity to champion Scotland’s delicious produce and celebrate our world class natural larder of premium produce and the individuals who create it. We owe a debt of gratitude to the farmers and fishermen responsible for earning our deserving reputation as a Land of Food and Drink.

“More than 200 events are taking place around the country over the Fortnight, in addition to promotions and sampling events across retailers of all sizes. There’s every opportunity to seek out local suppliers and discover what is produced on your doorstep!”

Fiona also outlined how independent retailers can participate and fly the flag for Scottish fare. She told us, “There’s a hugely varied range of activity undertaken by retailers in support of SFDF. This includes in-store displays, promotions, sampling activity and demonstrations across farm shops and delicatessens. I know of several which are running pop-up events outside of their normal premises.”

Fergus Ewing, cabinet secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity said, “Food and drink continues to be one of our top global exports and that trend shows no sign of slowing down. The industry is vital to Scotland; it creates jobs and wealth, impacts on health and sustainability, and helps attract people to the country by promoting our food and drink around the globe.

“SFDF is an excellent opportunity to celebrate our home grown food and drink and to think about where it comes from. I’d encourage everyone to try and buy the very best food and drink that Scotland has to offer during the next two weeks.”

SFDF will also take to the Speciality & Fine Food Fair for the eighth consecutive year and will host a record 39 different Scottish companies. The selection of artisan food makers, ranging from distilleries to oil producers, will exhibit on the pavilion showcasing their products.

To find out more visit fooddrinkfort.scot or follow @ScotFoodFort on Twitter.