The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is currently seeking input on how to achieve its goals while also modernizing its processes to grant officers more flexibility in assessing the rating and risk of businesses. This move has been positively received by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS).
ACS, in its submission to the inquiry, proposed that the FSA should utilize the Primary Authority register to identify businesses deemed lower risk due to their adherence to standards and practices laid out in the Assured Advice scheme. By participating in this scheme, businesses can establish and maintain reliable procedures for ensuring food safety.
ACS Chief Executive, James Lowman, emphasized the importance of food hygiene in the convenience retail sector, as it increasingly offers freshly prepared meals to customers. He welcomed the FSA’s efforts to target high-risk businesses and urged the agency to recognize those who abide by the Assured Advice scheme as lower risk.
The ACS, in partnership with Surrey and Bucks Trading Standards, operates one of the largest Assured Advice schemes in the UK, providing comprehensive guidance on all aspects relevant to convenience store businesses. Retailers that adhere to Assured Advice can rest assured that their processes will be respected by local enforcement officers, safeguarding against potential conflicting interpretations of the law.
In conclusion, the FSA’s ongoing consultation and proposed updates signify significant progress towards a robust and streamlined system that concentrates efforts on high-risk businesses. Recognizing and valuing the efforts of businesses that follow the Assured Advice scheme will further contribute to ensuring food hygiene standards are upheld within the industry.
