Q: Q: I've just turned 18 and I have saved up £1,000 to start up a small mobile catering business selling hotdogs, etc. The only problem is I have no idea about taxes or catering laws. I have done some research but I want to make sure I follow every rule I have to so as I don't get into trouble. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Apr 23 2006
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Answered by: Philip Wilkinson Ask a question
For any type of catering business you will require comprehensive knowledge of food hygiene and will need to ensure your preparation practices meet strict environmental health standards. It is recommended that you seek professional legal advice prior to making any business decisions.
It is essential that you hold a food hygiene certificate. The Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Certificates in Food Hygiene are intended for anybody handling food and explore the legal requirements of food storage, preparation and handling. See the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health’s (CIEH) website at www.cieh-coursefinder.com to find your nearest course, or contact your local authority’s environmental health department.
A mobile takeaway has to be registered with the local authority in respect of food hygiene matters and to obtain permission to park the unit in a suitable location.
There is a wide range of food safety and hygiene regulation, including the following:
• The Food Safety Act 1990 stipulates that all foodstuffs must be safe to eat and that the description of the food must not mislead the consumer
• In January 2006, the Food Hygiene (England) regulations 2006 were introduced. They affect all food businesses and ensure that they maintain the highest standards in food hygiene and safety. Visit www.food.gov.uk/foodindustry/hygiene for more information on the regulations.
• The Food Safety 19990 Regulations 2004 and the General Food Regulations 2004 all require food businesses to establish a system allowing their products to be traced back to the supplier.
See the Food Standards Agency (FSA - www.food.gov.uk/foodindustry/regulation) for further details of food regulations and standards that will apply.
It’s also necessary to be aware of relevant health and safety legislation. The Health and Safety Executive - www.hse.gov.uk/food/index.htm - provides information and guidance on issues affecting food businesses.
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