Andy Philip

The scale of response to the Scottish Government's discussion on a national food policy has been overwhelming, a minister said.

Over three months, more than 25,000 people visited the government website and 500 contributions were registered.

Thousands of people attended events across the country to discuss the future food policy.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment Richard Lochhead said: "I have been overwhelmed by the response to the food discussion and would like to thank everybody who commented for their valuable contributions.

"The wide array of responses show food is clearly a subject close to many of our hearts and is a clear indication of the food revolution that is taking place the length and breadth of Scotland." Contributions were made by organisations including the National Farmers Union, Quality Meat Scotland, major food retailers, grocers, wholesalers, Seafood Scotland and the Federation of Small Businesses.

The NHS, RSPB and Eco-Schools Scotland also took part. The "discussion" - which ended on April 25 - comes amid growing debate on the future of food security globally.