Scottish restaurants could do more to provide healthier options for customers, new research suggests.

A survey commissioned by the Scottish Consumer Council, which questioned more than 500 Scots, found that while 94% said they felt it important for healthier meals to be available on restaurant menus, nearly half (45%) had not been able to find healthy options when dining out.

The results come after the launch of the Healthyliving Award in July, which is organised by the Scottish Consumer Council and the Scottish Executive and recognises caterers that provide healthier menu options.

Claire Brown, project manager of the Healthyliving Award, said: “This research illustrates that people have an appetite for healthy choices when they eat out and are generally more aware about the benefits of healthy eating.”

To qualify for the award, caterers must meet key criteria, which include a commitment to healthier eating. This must be demonstrated in menu selection, food preparation, marketing and the way food is presented and sold.

Scotland sets standard for healthy eating>>

By Kerstin Kühn

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