FOOD safety and standards will be overseen by a new body, the Scottish Government has announced.
The change follows a decision at Westminster to transfer responsibility for nutrition and food labelling in England from the Food Standards Agency to UK Government departments.
Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said the new Scottish agency was in line with recommendations from an independent review led by Professor Jim Scudamore.
Mr Matheson said: "A new body will allow a Scottish approach to be taken to tackle poor diet and food-borne diseases and should support our food and drink industry in growing its strong, international reputation for safe, quality food."
"The new body will be at an arm's length from the Scottish Government. The body will encompass nutrition and labelling policy, and meat inspection policy and operational delivery, in addition to food safety and standards. We will establish a new body that is independent, evidence-based, consumer-focused and transparent. Creating a new Scottish Food Standards body will require primary legislation, and we plan to consult on options before the end of this year."
Marieke Dwarshuis, director at consumer watchdog Consumer Focus Scotland, said: "The consequences of poor food safety measures can be devastating and people want to know that the highest standards and controls are in place. We are pleased this new Scottish body is intended to be transparent and consumer-focused and we look forward to seeing the detailed proposals."
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