Food regulation in UK

Regulation and legislation

 http://www.food.gov.uk/foodindustry/regulation/

The production, processing, distribution, retail, packaging and labelling of food stuffs are governed by a mass of laws, regulations, codes of practice and guidance.

Find out more

General food law

Whether you work in a food business or you are a consumer interested in food law, there are general requirements, which are listed on this page.

The Food Standards Act 1999

The Act was introduced in the House of Commons on 10 June 1999 and received Royal Assent on 11 November 1999.

Incident report form for food and feed recalls and withdrawals

The Agency has produced an online form so food and feed businesses can notify us if they need to withdraw products from the market. The form can also be used by food authorities to report incidents.

Food Alerts, product withdrawals and recalls

The FSA issues a 'Product Withdrawal Information Notice' or a 'Product Recall Information Notice' to let local authorities and consumers know about problems associated with food. In some cases, a 'Food Alert for Action' is issued. This provides local authorities with details of specific action to be taken on behalf of consumers.

Regulatory approach

The Food Standards Agency has a statutory objective to protect public health and consumers' other interests in relation to food and drink. However, we are aware that excessive or unclear regulations can place a burden on business, the public sector and civil society groups (such voluntary groups, charities and not for profit organisations) and so hinder effective delivery of the intended benefits.

European legislation

Much of the detailed legislation on food standards originates in the European Union. This section includes details on how food hygiene legislation was consolidated and simplified as well as details of other European legislation.

Codex

The Codex Alimentarius is a series of food standards and related texts that aim to provide a high level of consumer protection and fair practice in the international trade of food and agricultural products.

Hygiene legislation

Food hygiene legislation affects all food businesses that regularly produce, handle, transport, process or supply food. This includes caterers, primary producers (such as farmers), manufacturers and retailers. How it affects you will depend on the nature of your business.

Whistleblowing

FSA policy on handling disclosures made under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.