Know the facts

Cut through the jargon and get clear, accessible food and feed information which you can trust

As Scotland’s independent public‑sector food body, we base all our advice and decisions on robust science, evidence, and the needs of consumers. 

These fact files are designed to cut through the jargon and give you clear, accessible information you can trust.

Raw milk

Person in a blue boiler suit operating a milking parlour attaching a cluster to a cow's udder

In Scotland, the sale of raw (unpasteurised) drinking milk and cream for direct human consumption is not allowed. Read our six facts on the importance of pasteurisation to protect consumer and public health.

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Glycerol

Close up of slush machine

Although glycerol is generally of low toxicity, there are concerns about the effect on young children when large quantities are consumed over a short period of time.

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Ultra-processed foods (UPFs)

Chicken nuggets with ketchup

Processed and ultra-processed foods often get a bad rep, but not all of them are unhealthy.

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Animal welfare at slaughter

A cow in a pen on a farm

Protecting animal welfare at slaughter is a legal requirement and a core part of the food system in Scotland.

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Cell-cultivated products (CCP)

scientist and microscope

While cell-cultivated products have been approved for pet food, no products have yet been authorised for human consumption in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

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Cannabidiol (CBD)

Oil in glass vial with eye dropper with a green background.

In Scotland, foods and supplements containing CBD are regulated as novel foods and must meet strict legal and safety requirements before they can be sold.

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Nitrates and nitrites

Slices of pink ham neatly arranged on a black plate with a gold rim.

Nitrites and nitrates are naturally occurring compounds which can be used as food additives.

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Food supplements

Clear food supplement capsules spilled out onto a table.

Choosing food supplements can be confusing, with many products claiming to boost health or wellbeing.

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