Consultation on proposals for a revised system of financial support for abattoirs and game handling establishments

Geographical scope of consultation 

This consultation extends to the Food Standard Agency's geographical remit of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

This consultation will be of most interest to

Food business operators (FBOs) in the meat industry whose activities are subject to inspections charged for by the FSA. In particular, those who receive a discount on their charge. This includes operators of:

• approved slaughterhouses
• cutting plants
• game handling establishments
• on farm slaughter facilities

Additionally:

• trade bodies representing such FBOs
• customers of such FBOs (including primary producers) and their trade associations, for example, farmers' unions 
• professional bodies representing those who carry out inspections in meat premises
• associations and groups representing interests of consumers in relation to food or managing public money

Consultation purpose 

The consultation invites views and evidence on: 

• the FSA’s rationale for change and the proposed revisions to the system of support to meet that rationale
• alternative views or suggestions that could help refine the proposals before final decisions are made by the FSA Board and ultimately Ministers in the three nations
• the potential impact on FBOs, consumers and the wider food system that would arise from the changes

The responses will inform the final policy. They will ensure that any changes to the discount framework that are recommended to the FSA Board - and ultimately ministers - are evidence-based, proportionate and transparent.  

There are two distinct elements to the FSA’s meat charging regime:

1. The charges for official controls.
2. The financial support provided via a discount scheme.

At this stage the FSA is not consulting, or inviting views, on any changes to the system beyond those outlined in this consultation. These relate solely to proposals for a revised system of financial support via discounts to charges for official controls. 

Consultation pack 

This consultation pack provides the background information and details you will need to know in order to respond to the questions in this consultation.  

How to respond  

Responses are required by Friday 12 June 2026.  

Please respond using the online consultation response form.

Or you can respond by email to meatchargingpolicy@food.gov.uk. Include in your email:

• whether you are replying as an individual or on behalf of an organisation
• the location where you are based - England, Wales, Northern Ireland or other
• the size of your organisation: 
  • 9 or fewer employees (micro)
  • 10–49 employees (small) 
  • 50–249 employees (medium) 
  • 250 or greater employees (large)