Scottish Bake Off star Peter Sawkins helps bring campaign to support Scottish produce to life

Peter Sawkins: the star of the Great British Bake Off has helped to highlight the benefits of buying fresh, local Scottish produce as part of the campaign

The joint campaign launched by the Scottish Government and Scotland Food & Drink is encouraging shoppers to seek out and sample more of Scotland’s wide-ranging produce to stimulate the country’s food and drink industry, with a dedicated website created at onthetable.scot to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local businesses.

This follows a recent survey by the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership highlighting an increase in people buying local produce since the pandemic began - with 14% of red meat buyers buying more local red meat alongside 17% of adults purchasing more locally grown and sourced vegetables.

The survey also revealed that people were buying locally sourced produce in order to support local farmers and Scottish businesses, an effort which the new joint campaign now hopes to highlight on a larger scale.

Commenting on the campaign, Peter Sawkins said: “Scotland has so many products that go beyond the classic haggis and salmon, from everyday staples such as eggs, milk and vegetables to the more unusual celeriac, nori and scallops. When I’m cooking at home I try to cook with seasonal local Scottish products as much as possible. Although most foods are available in the shops all year round, it’s important to buy locally sourced food when they are in season as they are never beaten on taste.”

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “Scotland is renowned globally for our amazing natural larder and we must do all we can to protect and promote our successful food and drink sector. From farm to fork, from pier to plate, there is something for everyone to try. And much of our seasonal produce is affordable and readily available.

“We know the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit have both had a huge impact on the way people shop, eat and drink and it is more important than ever to show support for our local producers and everyone working in our food and drink industry. The Scottish Government is committed to doing just that and I am pleased to launch this campaign, which can help the sector recover from recent challenges.

“Whether you are a self-confessed foodie or a busy parent looking to make a budget-friendly family dinner, there is a wide range of Scottish ingredients and produce for every taste, budget and diet. I encourage everyone to explore what Scotland brings to the table.”

James Withers, Chief Executive of Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Scotland’s food and drink sector is underpinned by farmers, fishermen, food and drink producers with a passion for what they are producing matched by their talent and ambition. This is a fantastic opportunity for them to have their hard work and passion seen by consumers. Our industry has an amazing story to tell and this our chance to tell it.

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