Food Standards Agency in Wales publishes summary audit report
Thursday 15 July 2010
The Food Standards Agency in Wales has published a summary report of a focused audit programme that was undertaken between September 2009 to March 2010.
The audits examined the food law enforcement services of 10 Welsh local authorities, and were carried out as part of the Agency’s work to maintain and improve consumer protection and confidence.
The report, which lists keys findings and recommendations, can be viewed via the link below:
Steve Wearne, Director of FSA in Wales, said: 'The Food Standards Agency has a key role in overseeing local authority enforcement activity. Food businesses have a duty to make sure the food they sell is safe and local food law enforcers are the first line of defence in making sure the public is protected. It is our job in the Agency, in partnership with local authorities, to set a standard for this vital public protection work and this audit programme has told us if it’s being met.'
He concluded: 'The programme has helped us to better understand how local authorities operate across Wales, and has enabled us to highlight and share best practice with other authorities. The summary report will allow the Agency to identify and address areas of concern, and give us information on whether appropriate resources are being directed at this important function.'
Notes to Editors:
- This audit programme was carried out from 29 September 2009 to 31 March 2010.
- Audits of local authorities’ food law enforcement services are part of the Food Standards Agency’s arrangements to improve consumer protection and confidence in relation to food. These arrangements recognise that the enforcement of UK food law relating to food safety, hygiene, composition, labelling, imported food and feeding stuffs is largely the responsibility of local authorities.
- An audit report examines the authority's food law enforcement service/activities. The assessment includes the local arrangements in place for database management, inspections of food businesses and internal monitoring.
Related links
(pdf 241KB)11th Floor, Southgate House,
Wood Street,
Cardiff CF10 1EW
Telephone: 02920 678916
Fax: 02920 678918/9
Email: caroline.kitson@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk