MORE of Scotland’s children are to be given the chance to learn about where their food comes from and how it gets from farm to fork.

The Scottish Government is giving young people the chance to learn first-hand where their food comes from, how it gets from the farm to fork, and aims to expose them to what goes on in the rural economy.

Speaking while visiting West Craigie farm near Queensferry with pupils from Queensferry Primary School, rural affairs minister Mairi Gougeon said: “Scotland’s larder is world renowned, and it is important that young people, from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to better understand its quality and enjoy our wonderful produce as part of a balanced healthy diet.

“As food and drink fortnight comes to a close, the importance of educating young people about having a healthy relationship with food is a key pillar to our aspiration for Scotland to become a Good Food Nation and is why the recent Programme for Government committed to providing more opportunities for primary school children to have the chance to visit a farm.

“Through visiting farms such as this, young people are also exposed to the diversity of opportunities available to them within the rural economy as well as gaining a better awareness of how their food gets from the farm to their plates.”

Chief medical officer for Scotland, Catherine Calderwood, said: “Enabling young people to make the best possible start to life by showing them the benefits of eating healthy is vital to reducing health problems linked to poor diet and unhealthy weight.

“By increasing chances for young people to visit farms, we are highlighting to them the quality and enjoyment of eating healthy local produce, which we hope they will take with them through the rest of their life.”