RQIA Guidance on Dental Care Abroad

The RQIA has issued guidance for individuals considering travelling abroad for dental treatment. The document outlines potential risks, emphasizes the importance of researching foreign dental regulations and professional registration, and advises consulting with a UK dentist before proceeding.

Safeguarding Children and Young People in Northern Ireland Policy

The RQIA has issued guidance on co-operating to safeguard children and young people in Northern Ireland. This policy outlines the legislative context, principles, and responsibilities of various bodies, including Health and Social Care, Justice, and Education sectors, in protecting children.

Scotland CBD Novel Food Applications Consultation

Food Standards Scotland has launched a 12-week public consultation on the first three applications for cannabidiol (CBD) products as novel foods in Scotland. The consultation seeks feedback on safety assessments, labelling, and enforcement to inform recommendations to Scottish Ministers on product authorisation.

FSS Backs 'Bang in Some Beans' Campaign

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has announced its support for The Food Foundation's 'Bang in Some Beans' campaign, which encourages consumers to incorporate beans into their daily meals. The campaign aligns with FSS's Eat Well Your Way initiative, promoting simple, affordable, and nutritious dietary changes.

Report Identifies Future Food Technologies for UK Plates by 2035

Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland have released a report identifying innovative food technologies expected to reach the UK market by 2035. The report outlines potential food safety and regulatory needs arising from these emerging innovations, aiming to guide future regulation and industry planning.

Food Standards Scotland Allergen Information Consultation

Food Standards Scotland has launched a 12-week public consultation on how allergen and ingredient information is provided by businesses in the non-prepacked sector, such as restaurants and takeaways. The consultation seeks views on strengthening written allergen information and improving ingredient transparency for consumers in Scotland.

Food Standards Scotland Publishes 2026-2031 Strategy

Food Standards Scotland has published its five-year strategy for 2026-2031, outlining its approach to protecting public health, promoting healthier diets, and maintaining confidence in Scotland's food system. The strategy focuses on three priorities: public health and consumer protection, evolving the regulatory landscape, and providing an effective public service.

Sausage firm fined for polluting North Lanarkshire burn

Devro (Scotland) Limited has been fined £48,000 plus a £3,600 victim surcharge for discharging untreated industrial effluent into the Bothlin Burn, harming the local environment. The company pled guilty to carrying out a controlled activity without authorization from SEPA, following an investigation into pollution complaints.

SEPA Investigates Ongoing Oil Pollution in River Dochart

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) continues to investigate an ongoing diesel pollution incident in the River Dochart near Killin. SEPA is overseeing containment efforts by specialist contractors and analyzing water and ecology samples to determine the full environmental impact. The agency is working with Police Scotland to gather evidence for potential enforcement action.

SEPA: Fish Barrier Removal Restores River Habitat

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has completed the removal of a redundant weir on the Halter Burn, restoring 1.6km of upstream river habitat. This project, funded by SEPA's Water Environment Fund, aims to boost populations of endangered fish species and enhance river resilience.