Food safety guidance for retailers
If you plan to start a food business, you must legally register your business with us before you begin trading. An officer may contact you to discuss the type of business you intend to operate.
Helpful guidance before you start
You can find useful information on:
Understanding allergen – Food Standards Agency rules is also essential when selling food directly to customers.
Food safety management
All food businesses must have a written food safety management system. A free resource, Safer Food Better Business – Food Standards Agency, is available to help you set this up. You can complete it online or print only the sections that apply to your business. The parts you need will depend on the type of food you handle, especially if you sell open high‑risk food or run a butchery counter. Other start‑up guidance pages may also be helpful.
You can also read guidance on how your food hygiene rating is assessed and how to improve it.
Training for food handlers
Food handlers do not need a formal certificate, but business operators must ensure all staff receive appropriate food hygiene training and supervision.
Recommended training levels:
- Level 2 for anyone preparing or handling food
- Level 3 for supervisors or business owners
Online training is widely available.
Health and safety
Example risk assessments are available to help you manage safety risks, particularly if you operate a convenience store, newsagents, butchery counter, off‑licence or carry out any food preparation.
Business and planning support
The council’s economic development team can provide additional business support.
Before opening, you should also speak to the planning department to ensure your chosen premises have the correct planning permission. You can contact the duty planning officer.
Duty Planning Officer
01582 546317