As a unit, we are collecting, analysing and using food systems data in Scotland drawing on an eclectic array of expertise including epidemiology, economics, nutrition, simulation modelling, public health, social policy, sustainability, and agriculture.
We are helping to fill gaps in analytical capacity and support local authorities, health boards and communities engage in food systems work across Scotland by using data effectively to facilitate the outcomes of the Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act. This will involve pooling, harmonising and analysing publicly available data; and sharing data for bespoke analyses when feasible and aligned with the Good Food Nation Act.
Many people have ‘asks’ when it comes to data – for example, what’s the density of takeaways around schools in our local area? How have emissions associated with food consumed in my local area changed over time? – but may not be aware of existing data or how to analyse it to answer these questions. We will do our best to answer requests for answers to these sorts of questions and help support local authorities and health boards in the planning for, and developing of their 1st Local Good Food Nation Plans.
Activities we will engage in include:
- Identifying and advising on food-relevant data gaps in Scotland
- Baselining Scotland’s food system using existing data, where available
- Monitoring impacts of Good Food Nation activities over time
- Simulating future scenarios for food systems transformation in Scotland
- Presenting data with the necessary context to communicate complete stories
Members of the Analytical Unit are:
- Professor Lindsay Jaacks, Analytical Unit Co-lead, Personal Chair of Global Health and Nutrition, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems
- Professor Peter Alexander, Analytical Unit Co-lead, Personal Chair of Global Food Systems, School of Geosciences, Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems
- Dr Joe Kennedy, Research Fellow in Food Systems Transformation (Analytical Support)
- Dr Megan Kutzer, Research Fellow in Food Systems Transformation (Analytical Support)
- Tilly Robinson-Miles, Partner and Stakeholder Relationship Fellow
- Dr Alexa Bellows, Chancellor's Fellow, The University of Edinburgh
- Anna Chworow, Nourish Scotland
- Dr Kirsteen Shields, Senior Lecturer in International Law and Food Security, The University of Edinburgh
- Dr Valeria Skafida, Senior Lecturer in Quantiative Social Policy, The University of Edinburgh
- Professor Angela Tregear, Personal Chair in Marketing, The University of Edinburgh Business School
- Callum Wilkinson, Soil Association Scotland