Registering your food business
Food hygiene legislation requires you to register your food business with your local authority.
This should be done at least 28 days before opening
For multiple premises each must be registered
Mobile units should be registered with the local authority for where it is stored
For business run from a home environment, registration must still be carried out
Don't worry if you have forgotton or already started your business and not yet registered. You must however ensure you register without further delay.
Registration is not a license and cannot be refused. It is simply the formal way to let your local authority know that the business is running. Letting the local authority know enables them to schedule an inspection of your premises and advise you in your responsibility in meeting food hygiene legislation.
For domestic premises such as cake makers or home caterers an inspection of your kitchen is still required but normally undertaken by appointment.
It is prudent to ensure you have your paperwork and training completed prior to your inspection to improve your hygiene rating.
Action point: Obtain a registration form from your local authority (council) via their website or by requesting one over the phone direct.
Back to list.