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Get your free copyRichard Lochhead, secretary for rural affairs, said the project would help match food businesses with Scottish farmers.
The Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) has been given £230,000 to complete the project, called the Sourcing for Growth Initiative, by 2015.
Mr Lochhead said, “While, in many places, the links between our primary producers and the manufacturers are strong, I believe we can do more to unlock untapped opportunities.
“That’s why I’m setting up the Sourcing for Growth Initiative – to strengthen this link, provide a matchmaking service and maximise economic opportunities for all. If you are using butter, can we make it Scottish butter? If you need vegetables, can we ensure more of them are sourced locally?”
Terry Jones, communications director for the Food and Drink Federation, added, “The quality of Scottish primary produce and its underpinning standards are well understood by processors and manufacturers, many of which have long-standing relationships with Scottish suppliers.”