The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) today stated that it has witnessed a sharp increase in the number of calls from people wishing to set up a new food business in Ireland.  It confirms that since the recession started in 2008, its free industry advice service has handled a 72% increase in requests for specific information and resources to assist a business start-up.  It handled 734 enquiries in 2008, compared to 1,259 enquiries in 2010.  In response to the increased interest, the FSAI today announced that a new dedicated area of its website will be a one stop resource for anyone seeking information in relation to establishing a food venture.

According to Edel Conway, Information Manager, FSAI despite the recession there has been a growth in the actual number of food businesses that have been registered in the country, with 46,259 food businesses registered with the Health Service Executive in 2010, compared to 44,052 in 2008.

“The growth in the actual number of food businesses correlates with our experience of individuals seeking specific information on how to go about setting up a food business.  Already in the first two months of this year, requests for business start-up information are up by 29%, when compared to the same period last year.  We offer an expert resource of advisors who can assist people understand what they need to do, how they need to go about it and how to comply with the law if they are thinking of setting up a new food outlet or business.  What is interesting to note is the growth in the number of manufacturers selling direct to the consumer, which would probably include people making cakes or jams at home, and other start-up businesses operating out of the domestic kitchen or selling at farmers markets,” Ms Conway remarked.  “One of the key strategies for the FSAI is to make it easier for food businesses to comply with legislation and to reduce the barriers for companies or individuals seeking to enter the arena.  We can offer expert advice and provide practical tips on actions that need to be done in this area.”

The FSAI stated that it has specific guides and leaflets for people interested in setting up their own food business.  It also reiterated its service to provide a resource and advice line for those needing assistance.  In particular, it has a Safe Catering Pack which is a vital resource to food businesses which allows them to be self sufficient in designing their own food safety management systems.
The publications available on its website or through its advice line are:

• Starting a Food Business in the Home Factsheet
• Business Start-up Factsheet
• Business Start-up Pack
• A Guide to Food Law for Artisan/Small Food Producers Starting a New Food Business
• Safe Catering Pack – Your Guide to Making Food Safely
• HACCP Information Leaflets
• Training Guide Level 1: Induction Skills and Level 2: Additional Skills
• Training Guide Level 3: Food Safety Skills for Management
• Safe Food to Go Booklet
• General Labelling of Pre-Packaged Food Leaflet

In 2010, a total of 10,897 queries were dealt with by the FSAI advice line, which operates from 9am to 5pm weekdays, is manned by trained advisors and food scientists and can be reached on lo-call 1890 336677.  Alternatively anyone can email their enquiry to info@fsai.ie.  The FSAI facebook page is also a resource with up to the minute information in relation food safety: www.facebook.com/FSAI

For more information see: Starting a Food Business?

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.