A new business is an exciting challenge.
Detailed guidance is available from the Food Standards Agency website on starting up a food business but some key areas to consider are:
- Check with the planning department to ensure you have appropriate planning permission for your intended business
- Food premises must register or apply for approval 28 days before you start trading (including existing premises under new ownership)
- Contact the licensing team if you plan to operate a mobile food business which trades on any street within the district, intend to sell alcohol or offer food after 11pm as you will require a specific licence
- Be satisfied that necessary facilities and good food hygiene practices are in place
- Make sure appropriate food safety management systems are in place
- Ensure staff have appropriate food hygiene knowledge
- Liaise with Trading Standards regarding any labelling and composition requirements and allergen rules
- Make appropriate arrangements for storage and disposal of waste including any waste cooking oil
- Review responsibilities for health and safety and fire safety
Once trading, your premises will be inspected by a food safety officer. Most premises are given a rating to show their compliance with food safety requirements.
Our Economic Growth team can provide additional business support and advice and can be contacted by email: economy@cherwell-dc.gov.uk
See also running a business government advice