Food warning for Hambleton caterers

1:55pm Wednesday 19th November 2008

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WITH the countdown to Christmas well under way, the owners of food businesses in a district are being urged to check they have registered with their local authority.

Hambleton District Council is reminding companies that all new food businesses must log their details at least 28 days before they are due to open, or 28 days after any significant changes such as new ownership.

The information will be used by the council to assist local businessess to meet food safety requirments as well as helping talilor advice.

Registration is free and applies to most types of food businesses - including catering businesses run from home, caterers, restaurants, hotels, cafes, supermarkets, staff canteens, warehouses, childminders, guest houses, delivery vehicles, buffet cars on trains, market stalls and mobile or temporary premises.

If food premises are used by several catering businesses – perhaps a village hall or conference centre - the person responsible for the building is also responsible for registering them. It is an offence not to be registered.

Eric Kendall, the council’s head of environmental services, said: "As people start preparing for Christmas parties, it is vital that they check with us whether their caterer is registered or if they are the ones doing the catering whether they need to register.

"It is important to remember that mobile and temporary premises still need to be registered. If anyone is any doubt we ask that they just give us a call to check".

For more information, visit hambleton.gov.uk or call 0845-1211-555.