Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has published its Strategy for 2026-2031, in which it set out how the organisation aims to work to promote healthier diets, protect public health and maintain confidence in Scotland’s food system over the next five years.
The strategy sets out FSS’s vision for a “safe, authentic and healthier food environment” that Scotland can trust, and that reflects its statutory role as Scotland’s independent public sector food body.
Consumers are at the centre of the strategy, said FSS, as it outlined how it would aim to protect people in Scotland from food safety risks, food crime and the impacts of poor diet, while supporting a regulatory system that is proportionate, evidence-based and trusted.
The strategy identified three priorities:
- Public health and consumer protection
- Evolving and reforming the regulatory landscape
- Providing an effective public service for the people of Scotland
It also sets out how FSS will look to strengthen its leadership on public health nutrition, improve the use of data and digital technologies, and work with partners across Government, local authorities, industry and the public to respond to a rapidly changing food system.
Heather Kelman, chair of the FSS board, said: “This strategy reaffirms our commitment to protecting the interests of consumers in Scotland. People need to be able to trust that the food they eat is safe, authentic and supports good health.
“The food system continues to face significant change, from evolving trade arrangements and new technologies to the ongoing impacts of climate change and diet-related ill health. In this context, our role as an independent, evidence-based organisation is essential.
“Over the next five years, we will continue to use robust science and data to guide our decisions, strengthen food standards and support a healthier food environment for everyone in Scotland.”
