Edinburgh City Council’s decision to introduce Meat Free Mondays in primary schools has incurred the widespread wrath of Scotland’s meat industry.
Children in the capital’s council-run schools are being offered vegetarian-only meals on one day a week, but it is the council’s justification for introducing the practice which has caused fury.
Explaining the rationale for the move, education convener Ian Perry said: “Encouraging healthy eating is extremely important so it’s fantastic that our primary pupils are being introduced to the benefits of eating less meat at a young age.
“By participating in Meat Free Monday, schools are also raising awareness of the environmental impact of livestock production, as well as the poor standards in which some animals are farmed.”
Meat wholesalers and traders, Scotland Food & Drink, the farmers’ union and others have now written to the council to highlight their “grave concerns” about a lack of awareness of the positive credentials of Scottish red meat production.
Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) chairman Jim McLaren said he had no problem with schools including meat-free meals as part of their regular range of meal choices.
“Our disappointment is that an organisation, particularly one linked with education, should position their decision to support a campaign with a clear anti-meat agenda,” he said.
“The explanation given in a press release issued by the council shows a very worrying lack of understanding of the reality of Scottish red meat production and it is this we are seeking to urgently redress.”
Mr McLaren added: “Livestock farming in Scotland also has enviable environmental credentials. The reality is around 80% of Scotland’s agricultural land is grass and rough grazing – unsuitable for growing cereals, vegetables or fruit but ideal for producing top quality beef and lamb.”
Council officials have now been invited to visit livestock farms and speak directly with producers to gain a better understanding of the role of red meat.
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
