In August 2025, we responded to a call for views into the proposed Good Food Nation National Plan. Our response highlights the importance of embedding child health and wellbeing at the heart of Scotland’s food policy. Below is a short summary, with our full response available in the downloads section.
Our response
Our response highlights the importance of embedding child health and wellbeing at the heart of Scotland’s food policy. Drawing on evidence from our members, we call for stronger school food standards, equitable access to nutritious food, and cross-sector collaboration to tackle health inequalities.
Our recommendations
- Expand BMI data collection to include children at the end of primary school, enabling more accurate monitoring and targeted interventions.
- Fund local authorities to maintain and expand access to sports and leisure facilities for children and young people, including preserving green spaces, swimming pools, and community leisure facilities.
- Restrict the promotion of foods high in fat, salt and sugar, including measures such as banning unlimited refills on soft drinks.
- Develop public health messaging and education campaigns to raise awareness of Ultra-Processed Foods and promote whole, minimally processed foods.
- Commit to universal free school meals for all primary school pupils. While the extension of free school meals to P6 and P7 children receiving the Scottish Child Payment is welcome, the Scottish Government should go further.
Downloads