Regulation and legislation
The production, processing, distribution, retail, packaging and labelling of food stuffs are governed by a mass of laws, regulations, codes of practice and guidance.
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General food law
Whether you work in a food business or you are a consumer interested in food law, there are general requirements, which are listed on this page.
The Food Standards Act 1999
The Act was introduced in the House of Commons on 10 June 1999 and received Royal Assent on 11 November 1999.
Incident report form for food and feed recalls and withdrawals
The Agency has produced an online form so food and feed businesses can notify us if they need to withdraw products from the market. The form can also be used by food authorities to report incidents.
Food Alerts
Food Alerts are the FSA's way of letting local authorities and consumers know about problems associated with food and, in some cases, provide details of specific action to be taken.
Regulatory approach
The Food Standards Agency has a statutory objective to protect public health and consumers' other interests in relation to food and drink. However, we are aware that excessive or unclear regulations can place a burden on business, the public and third sectors and so hinder effective delivery of the intended benefits.
European legislation
Much of the detailed legislation on food standards originates in the European Union. This section includes details on how food hygiene legislation was consolidated and simplified as well as details of other European legislation.
Codex
The Codex Alimentarius is a series of food standards and related texts that aim to provide a high level of consumer protection and fair practice in the international trade of food and agricultural products.
Hygiene legislation
Food hygiene legislation affects all food businesses, including caterers, primary producers (such as farmers), manufacturers and retailers. New legislation was introduced in the UK in January 2006. How it affects you will depend on the size and type of your business.
Whistleblowing
FSA policy on handling disclosures made under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.