Berry Scotland update

by Claire Paterson

The Berry Scotland Programme aims to increase the consumption of Scottish soft fruit in Scotland, for the benefit of public health, agriculture and the Scottish economy. To facilitate this challenge, underlying research to provide an evidence base for action is clearly essential. Getting the science right and reviewing current work (and research gaps) has been the role of the Scottish Executive funded Scientific Co-ordinator Julie Beattie who has been based in the Centre for Public Health Nutrition Research, Department of Medicine since 2002.

Her work is now being complemented by Claire Paterson who takes on the role of Marketing Co-ordinator (funded by Scottish Enterprise). The new marketing-based role is an exciting step forward for Berry Scotland and will allow the organisation to dedicate some serious time to identifying new opportunities for berries and berry-based products.

An industry-wide audit of the use of berries will shortly commence, followed by work in developing new products and partnerships within the food industry. The focus of the new role is on the development of a range of products that are healthy, affordable and contain significant levels of pure berry purees. These berry products will aim to be accessible to all, particularly those in society who would benefit most from the nutritional value of berries.

The Berry Scotland Programme was inspired by the holistic approach to improving public health undertaken by Finland in the 1980's, a policy which included an increased consumption of berry fruits as one component of a national dietary strategy for health. The running of the Berry Programme is overseen by a board of experts from the health, agriculture, land use, variety development, product development and marketing arenas.

The Berry Programme board is also supported by scientists at the University of Glasgow, Scottish Crop Research Institute and the Rowett Research Institute in Aberdeen.

For further information, please visit the Berry Scotland website at www.berryscotland.com The project also provides a regular newsletter, highlighting key developments within the Scottish berry industry. This can be downloaded from the website or call Claire Paterson on 01382 496447 for a paper copy.