Food Safety
We are pleased to represent a wide range of businesses involved in the sale or manufacture of food. Whether you operate a small corner shop, a public house or a large factory, our solicitors can use their technical know-how to assist you in most areas of the law relating to food safety and hygiene.
The enforcement of the law relating to food safety has undergone considerable change over the last ten years and no doubt will continue to do likewise in the future, especially in view of the recent proposals by Lord Young in his review of Health and Safety, which proposes a number of significant changes.
Inspectors not only have the power to prosecute, but also to issue enforcement notices and can ultimately close down food establishments where the situation is seen as particularly bad. Should you find yourself facing any form of enforcement action, we recommend that you seek legal advice from a solicitor as soon as possible.
Throughout the country, Councils are now implementing local rating schemes such as 'Scores on the Doors' which award points for good practices. A national scheme can be expected to appear in the near future, most likely based upon a simple 0-5 scoring system. Backed by several consumer groups, the Food Standards Agency and the Chartered Institution of Environmental Health, these schemes can have either a positive affect on businesses by promoting those that do well, but can also be davastating if a poor rating is awarded.
Faced with this array of powers, any business will want to use a solicitor with an in-depth knowledge and extensive experience to defend any actions that might be brought. This is where we can help. We operate on a national basis, so no matter where you are we can provide you with a lawyer to represent you and let you concentrate on running your business.
Our team of lawyers have considerable experience in relation to food safety and standards, both on a legal and technical level, including cases relating to :
