How can social science be used most effectively to strengthen our understanding of the cultures, attitudes and behaviours within different food businesses in Scotland that either promote or prevent compliance?

Background

As a regulator it is critical that FSS has a current evidence base on the factors that enable and encourage Scotland’s food businesses to adhere to legal requirements and the barriers which prevent them from complying with food law. This includes an understanding of the extent to which different sectors are aware of the legislation that applies to them, their access to guidance, the company policies and behaviours which promote a positive food culture and the behaviours and attitudes that prevent compliance. In parallel, it is also important for us to ensure that our methods for regulating food safety and standards remain fit for purpose and can keep pace with changes to Scotland’s food chain and the wider policy landscape. This relies on having up to date knowledge of the challenges faced by enforcement authorities when delivering food law, and the sanctions, interventions and support mechanisms that are most effective in driving compliance. One of the priorities for FSS's 2026-31 is to reform and modernise Scotland’s food law delivery system, and this research theme will enable us to build the evidence base we need to regulate our food system in the most effective and efficient way possible to maximise consumer protection, enable responsible food businesses to succeed, and ensure best use of public resources.