Food and Drink Innovation and Clustering in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands: Summary

The summary outlines the economic and policy contexts of the Arctic region, drawing out contrasts and similarities with the Highlands and Islands. It examines official data for evidence of food and drink clusters in the Highlands and Islands and, using a case study of the European Union’s protected names schemes, engagement with geographical indications. Aspects of the values and behaviour of food and drink entrepreneurs are explored using new data from a separate Scottish Government-funded research project.

Food and Drink Innovation and Clustering in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands: review of opportunities for engagement with the Arctic Region

The report outlines the economic and policy contexts of the Arctic region, drawing out contrasts and similarities with the Highlands and Islands. It examines official data for evidence of food and drink clusters in the Highlands and Islands and, using a case study of the European Union’s protected names scheme, engagement with geographical indications. Aspects of the values and behaviour of food and drink entrepreneurs are explored using new data from a separate Scottish Government-funded research project.

Eat them to beat them: Can Invasive Plants be Harnessed to Provide a Sustainable Source of Protein?

Invasive plants compete with crops of commercial interest for resources, tending to outgrow them owing to more robust dispersal mechanisms and quicker germination times. Once established, invasive species also become exceedingly difficult to remove. Currently, removal of unwanted plant mass generally involves animal consumption (herbivory), incineration, mechanical removal, or disposal in landfill. The use of herbicides is also a popular and often the preferred method of managing unwanted plant invasion.

SEFARI Gateway Update - January 2021

Before we discuss our new projects we must express our delight that in November one of the first projects we funded, namely ‘Conserving Genetic Diversity’, won the Innovation category at the Nature of Scotland Awards. This multi collaborative project established a world-first method to help understand and conserve genetic diversity in some of Scotland's most iconic wild species. Congratulations to all.

Protein for Life – Supporting healthy ageing in partnership with the food sector

Protein intake is insufficient among middle-aged and older adults in the UK, and this insufficiency is a major contributor to ill health and disability. Maintaining muscle strength through adequate protein intake will be valuable to individuals, help to extend active participation in the workforce, benefit the economy, and reduce healthcare costs.

SEFARI Gateway Update

The unpreceded COVID-19 health, economic and societal crisis has understandably dominated Gateway’s recent activity.  Gateway, on behalf of the SEFARI Directors Executive, has prepared a report on the huge effort that all institutes and staff have undertaken to help the fight against COVID-19.