Food safety inspections
We carry out regular inspections of food businesses to make sure they meet legal requirements and protect public health.
The Food Control team inspects all food premises in Luton under the Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2006 and in line with the Food Standards Agency’s Food Law Code of Practice. Inspections are usually unannounced and are scheduled according to the level of risk, meaning higher risk businesses are checked more often.
How often inspections happen
Inspection frequency depends on:
- the type of food handled
- whether high risk processes are carried out
- the size of the business
- how well hygiene practices are followed
- the structural condition of the premises
- confidence in management
- whether food handling practices could pose a risk to health
After the inspection
Following an inspection, the business is given a score which determines when the next visit is due, this could be between six months and three years. Officers check that food safety risks have been identified and managed, that staff are trained appropriately, and that the premises and equipment are in good condition.
If problems are found, officers will try to resolve them informally. If conditions remain poor or there is a risk to public health, formal action may be taken, which could include legal notices, prosecution or closing the business.
After each inspection, the business receives a hygiene rating certificate showing how well it met hygiene, structural and management standards.
Food standards inspections
The Food Control team also carries out inspections under the Food Safety Act 1990, checking compliance with requirements for:
- food quality
- food composition
- food labelling
- food presentation and advertising
- materials that come into contact with food
Inspections follow the national code of practice, and each business receives a score based on the level of risk found. This score determines the next inspection date, which may be between 12 months and five years.
The Food Standards Agency requires councils to publish a service plan explaining how food enforcement work will be delivered, as well as follow the national Framework Agreement on food law enforcement.
Opening times
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Enforcement policy
We follow national guidance on fair enforcement. Our enforcement policy sets out how officers will carry out their duties and is available to download.
Make an enquiry
You can contact us if you have questions or concerns about food hygiene or food standards in a local business.