70,000 people get food poisoning in the UK every year yet the Food Standards Agency estimate that 45% of food handlers in the UK are untrained. Food Hygiene legislation affects food businesses of all sizes - from sandwich shops, cafes and takeaways to restaurants, hotels and shops selling fresh produce and even care homes and educational establishments. The legislation states that all staff working in food handling and preparation roles must be given appropriate training. New food hygiene laws were introduced in the UK in January 2006. There are a number of European Regulations that apply directly to food businesses in the UK, as well as national legislation in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The key European Regulations are: Regulation (EC) 852/2004 on the hygiene of foodstuffs Regulation (EC) 853/2004 laying down specific hygiene rules for food of animal origin Regulation (EC) 854/2004 laying down specific rules for the organisation of official controls on products of animal origin intended for human consumption The Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2006 provide the framework for the EU legislation to be enforced in England. There are similar regulations in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2006 can be accessed on the Office of Public Sector Information (OPSI) website. Abacus HS has staff who are fully qualified in all aspects of Food Hygiene assessment and training. If you are involved in selling fresh food - Abacus HS consultants can help to keep your staff trained, and you out of trouble!