Scottish salmon celebrated at Taste of Shetland Festival

Trade body Salmon Scotland, along with Shetland-based salmon producers Cooke Aquaculture Scotland and Scottish Sea Farms, were headline sponsors of the event held over the weekend, which gave a platform to Shetland’s unique larder.

According to independent research commissioned by Shetland Islands Council, aquaculture constitutes the largest sector in Shetland, accounting for 20 per cent of its overall economic output.

Figures from Salmon Scotland show a direct economic contribution from the sector of more than £137million a year in Gross Value Added (GVA). The sector directly employs 470 people in well-paid, year-round jobs and supports 370 suppliers.

The Taste of Shetland Festival in Lerwick is organised by Shetland Food and Drink, which represents more than 100 members connected to the islands’ ever-growing food and drink sector.

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland said:

“Salmon from Shetland is the best in the world. Twenty per cent of all farm-raised Scottish salmon comes from Shetland and the sector in turn makes up one fifth of the Shetland economy.

“Together with our local farming companies – Cooke Aquaculture Scotland and Scottish Sea Farms – Salmon Scotland is proud to sponsor Taste of Shetland festival and showcase the finest food and drink these isles have to offer.”