Council reminds food businesses that we are ‘Here to Help’ them trade safely in Blaenau Gwent
A new campaign from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), supported by Blaenau Gwent Council, offers support and guidance to established and new businesses, as they welcome customers in the ‘new normal’.
‘Here to Help’ which launched this week, is targeting businesses that have had to diversify in order to continue to trade during the COVID -19 pandemic, as well as newly established small and micro food businesses.
It aims to give food businesses’ help with the food hygiene and safety rules they need to consider if they have changed their operating model. In response to the many home catering businesses which have resulted during lockdown, there is also clear advice of the importance of registering their business as well as what they need to do to trade compliantly.
Michael Jackson, the FSA’s head of regulatory compliance said:
‘We understand how tough it’s been for the food service sector and how hard they have worked to overcome these difficult circumstances. At the same time, it’s really important for food businesses to understand the possibility of additional safety risks, introduced by changes they have made; and the steps they must take to address these risks – both for themselves and their customers.’
The ‘Here to Help’ guide is based on the questions that have been asked by businesses over recent months. It includes useful advice on the provision of allergen information; food packaging, takeaway containers and ensuring delivery drivers follow food hygiene rules, and the importance and benefits of registration.
Michael added: ‘Working in partnership with Blaenau Gwent Council we really want to support businesses in getting it right – which is why our ‘Here to Help’ guidelines sets out what they need to do, in a practical and easy way.’
Councillor Joanna Wilkins, Executive Member for the Environment at Blaenau Gwent Council says:
‘We have seen the high fines and reputational damage that can result when a customer is made ill because of poor food safety management in the kitchen, inaccurate allergen information, or poor food hygiene practices.
‘That’s why we want to work with the FSA to support the businesses in Blaenau Gwent to ensure they are registering, keeping us informed of changes, providing accurate allergen information and adhering to the rules – to keep their businesses and customers safe.’
‘Here to Help’ will also be supported by a series of case studies. Businesses will be talking about how they have managed the transition to new operating models and the challenges they have come up against, through COVID-19. Their stories will be highlighted through blogs, podcasts and webinars across FSA channels.
Get more information:
- Food businesses can get more information at https://www.food.gov.uk/here-to-help-food-businesses
- Not sure if you should register as a food business? We can help you: https://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/en/resident/environmental-health/food-hygiene/food-business-registration-starting-a-new-food-business/
- Covid-19 advice for businesses - https://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/en/business/advice-for-business-covid-19/