UK salmon sales soar but Scots fail to heed the health warnings

Responding to the review of the Scottish Diet Action Plan (SDAP) and the news that oil-rich fish is being eaten less now than a decade ago (The Scotsman, 12th September 2006), Sid Patten, Chief Executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO), said: “Scots could improve their health by eating local produce.”

Recent research from leading market researcher TNS Worldpanel shows that consumption of fresh salmon in the UK continues to increase with more than one million servings being eaten throughout the UK every day.  But latest figures for Scottish consumption, from the SDAP review, show that Scots are eating less than a third of a portion of oil-rich fish a week and consumption is falling.

Sid Patten commented: “I am amazed that Scots are not supporting local produce by eating salmon.  Regular consumption of salmon is extremely beneficial for well-being, tasty and easy to fit into any family diet.  While UK salmon sales soar, Scots are failing to take advantage of the tremendous health benefits it can offer.” 

“Experts recommend that we eat at least one portion of oil-rich fish per week as it is one of the richest sources of omega-3s.  If Scots were to do this it would help to maintain a healthy heart and assist in the fight against Scotland’s number one cause of death, cardiovascular disease.  I welcome calls for further discussions between food producers, government and communities to help change the current culture of Scotland’s poor eating habits,” he concluded. 

ENDS

13th September 2006

Notes:
Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation is a newly expanded trade organisation for the Scottish salmon farming industry, representing the industry in political, regulatory and technical issues.

For further information or to arrange an interview with Sid Patten contact either:
Ken Hughes on 01738 587000 or 07974 173 739
Julie Edgar on 01738 587000 or 0789 987 5151

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