Food safety for businesses

We recognise that food sampling plays an important role in the protection of public health. It helps ensure that food and drink intended for human consumption are safe. Our food sampling programme will take account of the number, type and risk ratings of food businesses in the area, and the need to ensure that food laws are enforced.

The programme will focus on foods sold, produced or manufactured in Hart. Whenever possible, it will work in collaboration with any national or local sampling initiatives. The programme will also take account of the sampling of food from:

• premises where there are, or have been recent hygiene concerns, previous complaints and food poisoning incidents
• those premises importing/exporting food for which the Council has a statutory responsibility
• those businesses working in collaboration with the Council with a view to improving standards

Food samples will be taken by officers of the Council who are suitably trained, experienced and qualified.