Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) Review 2018

Overview

The Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) (‘the Code’) sets out instructions, processes and criteria to which the 32 unitary Local Authorities in Scotland must have regard when they carry out Official Food Controls in their role as Food Authorities. The current version of the Code was published in April 2015 following the creation of Food Standards Scotland on 1st April 2015. 

We now wish to consult with all stakeholders on an updated Code that reflects changes in legislation and practice since 2015, and also delivers alignment with:

• Food Standard Scotland’s Regulatory Strategy.
• The Scottish Government's approach to better regulation as set out in the Scottish Regulators' Strategic Code of Practice.
• Food Standards Scotland's Strategy to 2021, in particular Outcome 4 - Responsible Food Businesses Flourish. 

This updated Code of Practice also aims to prepare for future planned and prospective changes that will take place in 2019 and beyond, including the new Food Law performance rating system that will replace the current Annex 5 of the Code. 

Why your views matter

The 32 unitary Local Authorities in Scotland must have regard to the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) when they carry out Official Controls in their role as Food Authorities.  We are keen to hear from Local Authority Food Enforcement Officers on any aspect of the Code changes, and any impact the changes may have on Local Authority Food Law enforcement activities.