Bristol (Avonmouth and Royal Portbury)

The Service had access to the Port's commercial electronic freight movement system. This allowed for the identification of all declared consignments of imported food and feeding stuffs not of animal origin and also provided an effective and efficient means of control. All manifests were checked and the Service had a risk-based approach to imported food examination.

The electronic freight control system enabled the Service to take a largely informal approach to resolving imported food issues which had been practical and effective. Appropriate and effective follow-up action on sampled products had been taken when necessary.

The Authority's Food Service Plan clearly set out the key areas of activity. All the facilities and equipment necessary to carry out imported food control work had been provided and staff were well supported in terms of access to training.

The Service had most of the documented policies and procedures required by the Standard in the Framework Agreement on Local Authority Food Law Enforcement, which provided useful practical guidance.