The centre is the result of a merger between the Rowett Research Institute and the University of Aberdeen and will contribute to policies to promote long-term sustainable health and provide evidence to support Scotland’s developing national food and drink policy.

Speaking as he witnessed the signing of the merger documentation and unveiled the new signage, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said: “I am delighted to confirm that the Scottish Government is investing £12m in the new groundbreaking University of Aberdeen, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health. The merger between the University of Aberdeen and the Rowett Institute will not only develop a world-class nutrition and health centre in Scotland, but will also provide a facility at the forefront of scientific research.     Our new National Food and Drink Policy will benefit from great institutes such as this where their research can contribute to the Scottish Government’s own objectives of supporting healthier and more sustainable food choices and the sustainable economic growth of the food and drink industry.” 

Professor C Duncan Rice, Principal and Vice Chancellor, University of Aberdeen, said that linking the Rowett’s nutrition expertise with the University’s wide-ranging expertise in the medical sciences and public health will lead to a greatly enhance research capability. 

He continued: “The new Institute will be a major centre not only for Scotland, but also for the world at large, involving an unequalled number of researchers across a range of disciplines to provide an intensive effort on nutrition and health.  On behalf of the University it gives me great pleasure to welcome our Rowett colleagues to the University and I look forward to a very exciting future together.” 

Brian Pack, OBE, chief executive of ANM Group Ltd, who chaired the previous Rowett Governing Body, said the Rowett has undergone a major change to ensure its growth and sustainability for the future, adding that he had “no doubt” that the merger is right for the Institute and to the ultimate benefit of the people of Scotland.  

Professor Peter Morgan, director of The Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, who will become a Vice Principal at the University, said that given that Scotland ranks second only to the USA in the global league table for obesity, the new centre has never been more timely. He added:  “I am very excited about this opportunity for Scotland to extend the Rowett’s capability and reputation as a world class research centre focused on nutrition and health. We will be strongly placed to address many of the challenges facing the Scottish Government in the implementation of its strategic objectives. “