Legislation and compliance

Legislation and Compliance in the Kitchen

Understanding Key Legislations

  • Familiarise yourself with The Food Safety Act 1990, which establishes the legal obligations for businesses to provide safe, fit for consumption food.

  • Understand The Food Hygiene Regulations 2006, which elaborates on the general requirements for food hygiene and safety standards.

  • Acknowledge your duties under The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which requires employers and employees to maintain a safe working environment.

Food Safety Management and HACCP

  • Understand the importance of having a Food Safety Management System based on the principles of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).

  • Know the seven principles of HACCP: conducting a hazard analysis, identifying critical control points, setting critical limits, developing monitoring procedures, outlining corrective actions, keeping records, and providing verification procedures.

  • Understand that implementing, maintaining and regularly reviewing a HACCP plan is a legal requirement for food businesses.

Adhering to Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with the European Food Information to Consumers Regulation, which requires clear labelling and providing allergy information for unpackaged foods.

  • Follow the requirements of The Food Standards Agency’s ‘Food Law Code of Practice’ which provides instructions on compliance and enforcement of food safety laws.

  • Understand and follow the local environmental health department’s guidelines on food safety, hand hygiene, temperature control, cross-contamination and cleaning.

Penalties for Non-compliance

  • Recognise the significant penalties for non-compliance, which can include fines, imprisonment, prohibition orders, and reputation damage.

  • Understand the roles of enforcement officers and penalties they can impose under the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations 2013.

  • Be aware of the importance of complying with all legislation and regulations to avoid detrimental consequences for both individuals and businesses.