Health experts have issued an urgent warning about food poisoning as a "worrying" number of Scots are eating food that has gone off.
Half of Scots are eating groceries past their 'use by' date in a bid to save money, according to a new survey by Food Standards Scotland (FSS). While the survey was initially launched to examine emerging food trends, experts are "concerned" to learn how the cost of living crisis is impacting overall health.
The news comes amid reports of a "scary" rise in the costs of staple foods in supermarkets which is causing Scottish food bills to soar.
Examining over 1,000 Scots, the survey found that 70 per cent are more worried now about being able to afford food than back in April, while 41 percent are changing the way they cook to try and save money.
Other measures include changing fridge temperatures, as 10 percent have altered the thermostat, with a further two percent turning the appliance off entirely for periods of time to slash energy bills.
Jacqui McElhiney, Head of Science at FSS, commented: "It's concerning that so many people are adopting practices which could put them at increased risk of food poisoning.
"Perishable foods can become unsafe to eat when they are stored past their use by date, especially when they are not kept chilled. Saving energy and avoiding food waste are always priorities, but we must also remember the importance of food safety.
"This survey has shown us that the cost of living crisis is driving consumer behaviour with the potential to negatively impact public health."
While food poisoning is rarely serious, its symptoms are far from pleasant. According to the NHS, those who become ill can experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps and a high temperature.
These usually start within a few days of eating the tainted food and usually pass within one week. Food Standards Scotland have a number of resources to help keep households from falling sick.
A gut health expert previously shared the foods they avoid to reduce the risk of food poisoning, with beef burgers and bagged salad topping the list.
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