Food safety legislation and regulations

Food Safety Legislation and Regulations

The Food Safety Act 1990

  • The major piece of legislation governing food safety in the UK.
  • Provides the framework for all food regulations.
  • Prohibits the sale of food unfit for human consumption.
  • Makes it an offence to sell food that is not of the quality demanded.
  • It ensures food handling and preparation in a manner that doesn’t injure consumers.

EU Food Hygiene Regulations (Regulation (EC) 852/2004)

  • Requires businesses to implement a food safety management system based on HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) principles.
  • Requires businesses to ensure that their staff receives appropriate food hygiene training.
  • Sets standards for personal hygiene, cleanliness, and pest control.
  • Requires documentation of food handling processes and keeping records.

The Food Hygiene Regulations 2006

  • Applies directly to all food business operators.
  • Covers requirements for premises design and construction to ensure good hygiene.
  • Includes regulation on waste storage and disposal, cleanliness, maintenance and staff facilities.
  • Contains regulations for food handling, preparation, processing, packaging, transport and storage.

The Food Information Regulations 2014

  • Requires food businesses to provide clear allergen information on unpackaged food.
  • Introduces revised food labelling requirements, including nutritional information.
  • It dictates that the information should be noticeable, legible, and understandable.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)

  • Specific to substances that are hazardous to health, including cleaning chemicals.
  • Requires risk assessment for handling and use of potentially harmful substances.
  • Entails measures to control exposure, and procedures for handling accidents and emergencies.
  • Demands regular review and update of risk assessments.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

  • Requires employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.
  • Obligates employees to take care of their own health and safety and that of others affected by their actions.
  • Specifies that equipment, materials, and substances used at work to be handled safely and without risks to health.