Farming groups are closely examining the final business case for introducing digital grain passports (DGP) to accompany grain movements.

The idea of replacing the current paper system with digital passports to enhance food and feed safety data communication throughout the supply chain has been debated for over a decade.

The NFU and NFU Scotland have sought feedback from their members on this proposal, using online surveys and consultations through their regional and national boards.

The business case, developed by the DGP leadership group composed of industry stakeholders, requires responses from organisations by early July.

Consultations on the introduction of DGPs began in 2022, with a further round of consultations starting in November 2023 and concluding in February 2024.

At that time, NFU Scotland reported that Scottish farmers were generally unsupportive of the move to digital grain passports.

The union indicated that farmers felt the criteria for being fit for purpose, data ownership, and data usage had been met. However, they believed the criteria for accessibility, efficiency, and proportionate costs versus benefits had not.

As of then, NFU Scotland remained unconvinced that transitioning to a digital system would be an improvement over the existing paper system.

NFU Scotland’s combinable crops chair, Jack Stevenson said: "We welcome publication of the final business case for DGP.

"NFUS has been actively representing our arable members in discussions and we know that there are split views within the industry with regards to whether moving to a digital system is a positive step forward.

“As discussions have evolved it has become clear is that some end users, including millers and maltsters, are now starting to make the case for a digital passport.

“The NFUS combinable crops committee previously established six key tests for the DGP, and we will consider if these have been met by the new business case.”

What are the NFU Scotland's six key tests?

  • Is it accessible?
  • Is it efficient?
  • Is it fit for purpose? (does scope remain within paper passport requirements)
  • Are costs proportionate to benefits?
  • Will the data be owned by those who provide it?
  • Will the farming sector have a say in how the data is used?