Get approved the right way – with experts in your corner
What is Food Business Operator Approval?
Food Business Operator Approval is a legal requirement for businesses that handle, prepare, or produce food of animal origin, such as meat, fish, dairy, or eggs. Before you can begin trading, you must be approved by your local authority under Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004, which sets strict hygiene and safety standards for animal-based food products.
If your business falls under this regulation, you cannot operate until approval is granted.
Does my business need Food Business Operator approval?
Approval of a Food Business Establishment under Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004 is essential for any business involved in the handling, processing, or distribution of food of animal origin within the EU, whether that be meat, fish, dairy, gelatine etc. You are legally required to receive at least Food Business Operator conditional approval from your local EHO before you start trading.
Not sure if you need approval? Contact us today for honest, no-obligation advice — it’s completely free.
What does the Food Business Operator Approval cover?
HACCP
HACCP
- Proposed establishment layout showing storage, processing, waste areas, facilities, and equipment.
- Food safety management system based on HACCP principles
- Equipment maintenance arrangements
- Information on establishment, equipment, and transport cleaning arrangements
- Product testing
- Pest control arrangements
- Arrangements for applying the identification mark to product packaging or wrapping
Documents & Record Keeping
Documents & Record Keeping
- Monitoring staff health
- Staff hygiene training
- Record keeping
Waste & Water Management
Waste & Water Management
- Waste collection and disposal arrangements
- Water supply
- Water supply quality testing arrangements
Consultancy Services: How we can help your business
We understand the importance of gaining Food Business Operator Approval for your business success. We are here to remove the stress and reduce the time commitment for you and your business, allowing you to focus on other things. We support you from start to finish including:
-
Whether you are required to have Business Operator Approval - Create a bespoke Food Safety Management System unique for your business operation
- Support you with every aspect of completing the application
- Guidance on water testing and scheduling
- Represent you on EHO visits (if desired)
- Help you maintain systems needed to retain your Food Business Operator Approval
Our Support is Flexible
tailored to your needs
You’re never obligated to use our full Food Business Operator Approval service.
Whether you need help with one step or the whole process, we’re here to support you on your terms.
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