A to Z of services

The Law

The Food Safety Act 1990 and regulations made under it make it an offence for anyone to sell or process food for sale which is harmful to health.

They also place an obligation on businesses to ensure that their activities are carried out in a hygienic way.

The council is responsible for ensuring that local businesses comply with these regulations.

Inspections

We carry out regular checks on all food premises to ensure the public is protected and that high standards are maintained.

Inspections take place on a frequency determined by the perceived risk in each premises and ensure that risks have been identified, staff are adequately trained and the condition and cleanliness of the premises meets required standards.

Food Hygiene Rating System

We are participating in the National Scheme in partnership with the Food Standards Agency. The scheme provides consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses which supply food directly to consumers for consumption either on or off the premises. The purpose of the scheme is to help consumers make informed choices about the places where they eat out and from which they purchase food.  This will also encourage food businesses to improve hygiene standards.

Risk Assessments

Risk assessments are a legal requirement for all food businesses. The local authority require a risk assessment to be carried out prior to registration of a food business.

Advice and Information

We can advice and information to food businesses in the local area to ensure that all food supplied is wholesome and produced in a clean, hygienic manner.