City of Lincoln Council

There was clear evidence, including a specific objective in the corporate Strategic Plan, that the authority had not only recognised the importance of sampling as an element of its food law enforcement service but was actively and positively carrying it out.

Sampling activities were in line with its sampling policy and programme and appropriate follow up action was being taken in response to all unsatisfactory sample results.

Dedicated resources had been allocated to sampling activities which, together with a close working relationship with the Public Health Laboratory Service and neighbouring authorities, ensured that sampling was an integral part of the food law enforcement service.

The authority participated fully in regional and national sampling surveys and was using sampling pro-actively to assist local businesses to meet their legal obligations and to improve standards by raising awareness.

There is a need for the authority to review some of its procedures to ensure that it fully meets the requirements of the Standard and in particular to ensure that its activities are monitored to ensure consistency and compliance with its sampling policy, programme and procedures.