The Moredun Foundation hosted a landmark panel discussion on Friday, 29th November, at the Pentland Science Park, Penicuik, exploring “The Role of Livestock Production in Future Food Security: Challenges and Opportunities from Different Sectors.” Over 100 representatives from the agricultural and food sectors gathered to discuss the essential role livestock plays in producing sustainable, affordable, and high-quality food while addressing environmental and economic challenges.
HRH The Princess Royal concluded the event with a special visit, underscoring the importance of fostering dialogue on food security and sustainable agriculture.
Dynamic Discussions and Key Insights
Moderated by broadcaster Simon Cousins, the event followed a “Question Time” format, enabling attendees to engage directly with a distinguished panel of experts. Discussions ranged from global perspectives to practical farming challenges, offering a comprehensive exploration of food security.
Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland, framed food security, climate change targets, and renewable agriculture as global challenges, emphasising the vital role of research institutions in driving innovation and collaboration. She highlighted Scotland’s agricultural sector as central to its economy and sustainability efforts.
David Thomson, Chief Executive of Food and Drink Federation Scotland, called for a long-term strategy and investment in innovation to support the entire food supply chain. He spotlighted Scotland’s Net Zero Food & Drink Partnership, which focuses on achieving sustainability while ensuring a just transition for all sectors. Thomson stressed the need for policy decisions that balance long-term sustainability with the future of food production in Scotland and the UK.
Geoff Ogle, Chief Executive of Food Standards Scotland, explored the interconnections between food safety, sustainability, and security. He emphasised that food security cannot exist without food safety and detailed how technological advancements such as Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and One Health surveillance can improve pathogen detection and bolster Scotland’s global competitiveness in the meat industry.
Nigel Miller, a livestock farmer and former veterinarian, offered a practical perspective, addressing the challenges farmers face in adapting to Net Zero policies and evolving production standards. He stressed the importance of supportive policies that help farmers meet sustainability goals while maintaining food security.
Expanded Perspectives
Additional speakers enriched the discussion with diverse insights into livestock production and food safety in the presence of HRH the Princess Royal:
Kate Rowell, Chair of Quality Meat Scotland, detailed the history and impact of Scotland’s Quality Assurance schemes in promoting Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork, enhancing the reputation of Scottish red meat.
Clare Hamilton, Moredun Research Institute, emphasised the importance of pathogen control in food safety, sharing research on foodborne pathogens such as Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium spp.
Jo Moore, Head of Disease Control at Moredun, highlighted Moredun’s work in disease surveillance, which contributes to the early detection and containment of livestock diseases.
Mr Gareth Baird, Chairman of the Moredun Foundation said, “We are delighted to welcome HRH The Princess Royal to our event highlighting the critical role of Livestock Production in Future Food Security. The event successfully highlighted the interconnectedness of sustainability, food security, and biodiversity, reinforcing the importance of collaborative solutions across sectors. A summary report of the discussion’s key takeaways will be made available to ensure ongoing engagement with these critical issues”.
Key Themes
The event emphasised the need for a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental, economic, and social factors. Key insights included:
Livestock’s Role in Biodiversity: Livestock can contribute to biodiversity regeneration, but credible and well-funded assessments are needed to guide sustainable practices.
Supporting Farmers: Policymakers must prioritise holistic thinking and allocate sufficient resources to support farmers in meeting sustainability goals.
Consumer Behaviour and Food Waste: Shifting consumer habits is challenging but essential. Tackling food waste at the household level and encouraging sustainable consumption requires coordinated efforts across governments, supermarkets, and the food industry.
Incentivising Livestock Health Plans: Farmers should be incentivised, not compelled, to adopt livestock health plans that align with sustainability objectives.