The Food Standards Agency ("FSA") has published the revised Food Law Code of Practice, which provides guidance to Local Authorities on their approach to official controls at food business establishments.

We previously reported on the implications of the new Code, and a copy of our article can be found here.

In summary, the key changes include:

  • Clarification of the descriptors used to rate and assign intervention frequencies at food establishments
  • Greater focus on businesses with persistent or serious non compliances by reducing the frequency of interventions in those businesses with good management controls in place
  • A reduction in dual enforcement in a small number of establishments currently subject to both FSA and local authority control

The Code requires regular review and revision so that it reflects current enforcement practices. It is hoped that the most recent changes will ensure that businesses that are compliant are subject to less intervention from the regulators, with a greater focus on those who fail to meet their duties.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.