Miller Research was commissioned by the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales to provide a comparative review of the national food resilience approaches adopted by Scotland and Catalonia, with the aim of informing the potential development of a National Food Resilience Plan for Wales.
The work involved a desk-based comparative analysis of Scotland’s Good Food Nation Plan and Catalonia’s Strategic Food Plan 2021–2026. The review examined how each nation has structured its food policy, governance and monitoring arrangements, with a core focus on six key policy areas: domestic horticulture production, local economic development, public sector food procurement, food literacy, promotion of healthy diets, and access to healthy food.
The research found that both Scotland and Catalonia have developed ambitious, system-wide food strategies. A key strength shared by both Scotland and Catalonia is their recognition that food policy cannot sit within a single department. Instead, food resilience is treated as a cross-cutting issue, requiring coordination across government portfolios and engagement with public bodies, civil society, and the private sector. Scotland provides a legislative model through the Good Food Nation Act, with clear national outcomes and indicators. Catalonia offers a territorially driven approach, combining regional planning with participatory governance and strong stakeholder engagement.
The review identified five key lessons for Wales:
- Establish a clear national vision for food resilience that aligns with wellbeing goals under the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
- Embed food policy across government, supported by shared outcomes and measurable indicators.
- Use public procurement as a strategic lever, driving demand for sustainable, local and nutritious food.
- Strengthen local and regional food systems, supporting SMEs and community-based production.
- Invest in food literacy and public engagement, recognising the role of culture and behaviour in shaping food systems.
The findings suggest that Wales is well placed to develop a National Food Resilience Plan aligned with the Well-being of Future Generations Act, helping to build a fairer, healthier and more sustainable food future.
A National Food Resilience Plan could bring together current initiatives under a single strategic framework, helping to address immediate pressures on food security and affordability, improve population health outcomes, support sustainable economic development, and enhance environmental resilience.