FSA

The FSA has launched a new ‘Here to Help’ campaign to help the food sector adapt to the ‘new normal’.

The guide is aimed at small food businesses such as restaurants, takeaways, and cafés, which have diversified into food delivery, takeaway or online sales during the pandemic.

It lays out the hygiene processes and requirements that must be followed in order to continue operating, including advice on allergen information, safe food packaging, and ensuring delivery drivers follow food hygiene rules.

It also highlights the legal obligations for preparing, storing and distributing food.

“Covid-19 has been an extremely challenging time for the food industry, with many businesses changing the way they trade to survive,” said Michael Jackson, head of regulatory compliance at the FSA.

“It remains really important for businesses to understand the possibility of additional food safety risks as a result of the changes they have made and the steps they must take to protect their customers.”

The campaign will run alongside a series of case studies of small businesses who have adapted to the recent challenges.

“Our Here to Help campaign aims to support businesses in getting this right, to ensure consumers continue to have access to food that is safe.”

Deliveroo signed up almost 3,000 UK restaurants in the first month of the pandemic as outlets sought out alternative means to generate income.