Food Safety : Imported Food Policy

Aim

Approximately 50% of all food offered for retail sale in the UK is imported.  It is necessary to verify that this food has been legally imported, is safe for the consumer and is therefore fit to be displayed for sale in North Lanarkshire.

Review

This document will be reviewed in the event of any relevant significant changes as necessary and also on an annual basis from the date of implementation.

Corrective Actions

If the procedure is not being adhered to corrective action will be taken which may include revision of this document or staff training, as appropriate.

Procedure

North Lanarkshire Council is not a recognised border inspection post (B.I.P.) but does have some enhanced remote transit shed (E.R.T.S.) as identified by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise. Imported Food Control is therefore administered within North Lanarkshire on a routine inspection/complaint investigation basis or as a result of a Food Hazard Warning and visits to E.R.T.S. as necessary.

In carrying out such inspections/investigations Officers must be aware of the need to be vigilant in respect of possible imported foodstuffs and during the examination of such foodstuffs shall determine that they are properly labelled, bear the necessary health marks (in respect of meat, poultry, fish, dairy or egg products etc.), are fit for human consumption and have been legally imported into the UK.

Where there is any doubt as to whether or not the foodstuffs has been legally imported the Officer should endeavour to obtain further information from the food business operator such as documentation or records of traceability etc., and should notify the Food Hygiene Regulation/Food Standards Regulation Manager or Senior Environmental Health Officer, so that further investigation can be instigated where necessary.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, documented enforcement practice should always be followed including, where appropriate, sampling, seizure and detention and reports to the Procurator Fiscal.

Date of Previous Review  - 19/04/2006

Date of This Review             07/08/2008