FOOD STANDARDS Scotland's Food Crime Unit has taken to the road to raise public awareness of the different types of food fraud – and how to report it.

Defined as any deliberate manipulation, substitution, mislabelling or fraud in relation to food and drink, food fraud costs the UK economy an estimated £1.2 billion each year.

Head of FSS’s Scottish food crime and incidents unit, Ron McNaughton, said: “It is vital that our food and drink is safe and is what we expect it to be. Food fraud is a silent and almost invisible threat and we are committed to working closely with partners to help people become more vigilant and aware of the risks involved in fraudulent activity.”

A series of roadshows have been held across the country this month, with a team of experts on hand to provide information on food fraud, answer questions and highlight real-life examples of the most common types of activity.

Mr McNaughton continued: “Food fraud is damaging not only to consumers, but also to honest food businesses. Our free Scottish Food Crime Hotline – 0800 028 7926 – is operational 24 hours a day and is completely confidential and anonymous.

"Information provided is used by FSS and other partner agencies to identify those who are committing food fraud and potentially endangering the public in order to take positive enforcement action. We’re calling on everyone to be vigilant and to report any suspicions or knowledge they may have which could help bring those involved to justice.”