Register a food business
If you run, or plan to run, a food business in Luton, you must register with us.
What counts as a food business
Food businesses include any premises where food is prepared, sold or handled, such as:
- restaurants, cafés and hotels
- shops and supermarkets
- staff canteens and office kitchens
- warehouses and storage sites
- guest houses
- food delivery vehicles
- market stalls and mobile units
- hot dog vans, ice cream vans and buffet cars on trains
Before you register
If you are setting up a new food business, you should read the guidance available on how to get started before submitting your registration.
If your business has permanent premises and uses vehicles, you only need to tell us how many vehicles you use. If you operate solely from vehicles with no fixed premises, you must provide the address where the vehicles are normally kept.
Some businesses that handle products of animal origin, for example pasteurised milk, cooked meats or ready meals may require approval instead of registration. If you think this applies to you, contact us for advice and use the approval application form.
How to register
You must register at least 28 days before starting your food business. Registration is free and cannot be refused.
Register a food business – GOV.UK
Once registered, your details will be added to our register. Only the business address and type of business are made public.
Update a food business
You must notify us if your business changes ownership, changes the type of food activity, or moves to a different location.
Further help
These notes are for general guidance only and are not a full statement of the law. If you have questions or need advice, you can fill in the online enquiry form and someone will contact you within three working days.