[ARCHIVED CONTENT] Food Standards Agency

Feed law code of practice published Friday 29 December 2006 The Feed Law Enforcement Code of Practice (Great Britain) has been published today.

International meeting set to discuss fats and oils Thursday 28 December 2006 The 20th session of the Codex Committee on Fats and Oils - an international meeting that establishes standards on fats and oils - will be taking place in London from 19-23 February 2007.

FSA Chair's letter to Ofcom: December 2006 Friday 22 December 2006 Food Standards Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton has written to Lord David Currie, Chair of communications regulator Ofcom, to welcome its announcement of proposed new restrictions on TV advertising to children.

We wish you a healthy Christmas Thursday 21 December 2006 The Agency has issued some top tips to enable you to tantalise your tastebuds in the safest and healthiest way possible this Christmas.

Update on malicious tampering with Kingsmill Bread Thursday 21 December 2006 The Food Standards Agency is urging consumers to be vigilant after further suspected cases of malicious tampering at Allied Bakeries Orpington plant in Kent. The incidents emerged after customers discovered foreign objects in loaves of Kingsmill sliced bread.

FSA Wales joins drive to lift barriers for ethnic catering firms Thursday 21 December 2006 Earlier this month, FSA Wales teamed up with the Ethnic Business Support Programme (EBSP) and local council environmental health officers, to stage a pilot food safety event targeted at Chinese restaurants in three South Wales counties.

If your turkey juices are still pink, stop and think Wednesday 20 December 2006 Check out pub landlord Al Murray's Christmas turkey tips.

Crystal violet in Findus fish product Tuesday 19 December 2006 A sample of Findus frozen salmon skewers on sale in the UK has tested positive for the chemical dye crystal violet, which is illegal for use as a veterinary medicine and is not allowed in food in the EU.

New vision for enforcement Monday 18 December 2006 The Agency is looking to introduce fundamental changes to the whole approach to food law enforcement by local authorities. The aim is to provide them with flexible interventions for improving business compliance, enabling them to focus resources more effectively.

Richard Ayre becomes Interim Deputy Chair Monday 18 December 2006 FSA Board Member Richard Ayre has agreed to become Interim Deputy Chair of the Agency until a replacement is found to succeed Julia Unwin, who steps down on 31 December 2006. All four UK Health Ministers have approved the move.

Frozen meals recall update: December 15 Friday 15 December 2006 The Agency has issued an updated food alert for information in relation to the recall by Asda, Birds Eye and Sainsbury's Supermarkets of frozen ready-to-eat meals with rice, due to the possible presence of small fragments of glass.

Co-op withdraws crisps Friday 15 December 2006 The Co-op has withdrawn all batches of its own-brand multi-pack ready salted and assorted crisps because the ready salted flavour contains casein which isn't declared on the label, making it unsafe for people with a milk allergy or milk intolerance. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

UK National Control Plan published Thursday 14 December 2006 The first National Control Plan for the UK is now available online. The plan aims to ensure that effective control systems are in place for monitoring and enforcing feed and food law, animal health and welfare rules and plant health law.

Tesco recalls own-brand hot salsa dip Wednesday 13 December 2006 Tesco Stores Ltd has recalled its own-brand Hot Salsa Dip 300g because it could contain glass. The Agency has issued a food alert for information.

Folate consultation launched Tuesday 12 December 2006 The FSA is consulting on different options for increasing young women's intake of folate, a B vitamin, to reduce the number of pregnancies in the UK affected by neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Illegal dyes study published Tuesday 12 December 2006 The Agency has published details of FSA-funded work undertaken by local authorities on imported foods checking for a range of illegal dyes. This has shown that the vast majority of foods tested comply with the law.

FSA publishes simplification plan Monday 11 December 2006 The Agency today publishes its Simplification Plan, a wide-ranging strategy designed to cut business red tape, reduce the burden on enforcement officers, and improve levels of consumer protection.

Facing the future with the appliance of science Monday 11 December 2006 The key role science plays in Agency policy-making is featured heavily in this month�s FSA News, which is now published and available online.

Board update 7 December 2006 Monday 11 December 2006 Don't worry if you missed last week's FSA open Board meeting. The webcast is now available to view as video-on-demand and you can also download it as a podcast.

Regulatory framework published Monday 11 December 2006 The FSA has published a framework for regulatory decision making within the Agency.

Botulism in cattle advice Friday 8 December 2006 The Agency has changed its advice on the management of outbreaks of suspected botulism in cattle and the sending of meat and milk into the food chain.

Marks & Spencer voluntarily withdraws Strawberry & Almond crunch Thursday 7 December 2006 Marks & Spencer has voluntarily withdrawn batches of its own brand Strawberry & Almond Crunch breakfast cereal due to a packing error resulting in incorrect labelling information.

Local authority audit published Wednesday 6 December 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Craigavon is now available online.

Recruitment of a specialist ACMSF member Tuesday 5 December 2006 The Chair of the Food Standards Agency invites applications for the post of one new specialist member with expertise in medical microbiology for the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food. This post will become vacant from 1 April 2007.

Dr Wadge's blog: we've got mail Monday 4 December 2006 Check out the latest postings and comments sent to Agency Chief Scientist Andrew Wadge's blog. Dr Wadge�s blog aims to show how science is used at the Agency to develop policy. You can access it at blogs.food.gov.uk.

Tesco recalls own-brand tortilla wraps Friday 1 December 2006 Tesco Stores Ltd has recalled its own-brand Healthy Living Plain Tortilla Wraps because of the possible presence of small glass fragments.

Revised guidance on powdered infant formula Friday 1 December 2006 The Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency have issued revised guidance for health professionals on the preparation and storage of powdered infant formula milk.

Enforcement of hygiene legislation on farms in England Friday 1 December 2006 From 1 January 2006, new European Union (EU) food hygiene legislation has applied and has extended hygiene controls on farms, in most cases for the first time. Local authorities with responsibilities relating to animal health and feeding stuffs on farms are expected to undertake enforcement of these new requirements with effect from 1 December 2006.

Snacks recall - possible moth larvae contamination Friday 1 December 2006 Cardiff based snacks manufacturer Nature's Table has recalled certain packs of its 'Hawaiian Mix' 100g due to possible contamination by moth larvae/cocoons. The Food Standards Agency has today issued a Food Alert For Information.

Revised survey guidelines published Thursday 30 November 2006 The FSA today publishes revised guidelines for those carrying out its non-statutory food surveys. This move is linked to one of the Agency's main objectives: to ensure that it works in a transparent way.

Members sought for NIFAC Thursday 30 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency wishes to appoint new member in early 2007 to its Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee, which acts an advisory body to the FSA.

Members sought for Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee Thursday 30 November 2006 Applications are invited for members of the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee, which acts as an advisory body to the Food Standards Agency.

Postgraduate scholarships launched for 2007 Thursday 30 November 2006 The Agency has announced the areas in which it is to fund postgraduate research scholarships to start next October.

Agency talks science with its Chief Scientist blog Wednesday 29 November 2006 FSA Chief Scientist Dr Andrew Wadge has launched a blog to demonstrate how the Agency's consumer advice and policies are underpinned by the latest scientific evidence. You can access it at blogs.food.gov.uk.

Cultural diversity day in Cardiff Wednesday 29 November 2006 Around 30 South Wales nutrition and dietetics staff from Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust recently attended a Cultural Diversity Study day. This was arranged by the Trust working in partnership with FSA Wales together with the Heartlink Project and the Butetown/Grangetown Healthy Living Programme.

FSANI Attend Conference on Children's Health Monday 27 November 2006 Staff from Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) recently attended a conference for Home Economics Teachers and Health Education Coordinators, organised by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), to tackle the topics of protecting and enhancing children's health.

ACMSF annual report published Monday 27 November 2006 The 2005 Annual Report of the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) has been published and is now available online.

Armagh caterers get food allergy aware Monday 27 November 2006 Mervyn Briggs, Senior Policy Officer Consumer Choice and Food Standards from Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI), recently attended a seminar organised by Armagh and Dungannon District Councils. The seminar was organised to raise the awareness of caterers from across the districts to the pitfalls in using claims that might be misleading to consumers.

Workshop to tackle future food threats Friday 24 November 2006 The Agency is hosting an international workshop designed to tackle future threats to food safety and improve the food industry and governments� ability to stop or respond to problems.

Heinz withdraws Toddler's Own Sweet Potato and Beef Casserole Tuesday 21 November 2006 H J Heinz Co. Ltd has withdrawn Heinz Toddler's Own Sweet Potato and Beef Casserole 250g because some packs have been labelled incorrectly. The FSA has issued a food alert for information.

'Signalling change' on diet and nutrition Tuesday 21 November 2006 A seminar on diet and nutritional issues and the role of Government/private sector co-operation in addressing these, is taking place in the Netherlands on 30 November 2006.

Batchelors recalls chicken flavour 'super noodles' Tuesday 21 November 2006 Batchelors has recalled certain batches of Chicken Flavour Super Noodles 100g due to the possible presence of small pieces of hard white plastic in the flavouring sachet. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert For Information.

Specialist members wanted Tuesday 21 November 2006 The Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT) is looking for people to fill vacancies for specialist positions that have arisen on the committee.

COT meeting report of chemicals impact on male reproductive system Monday 20 November 2006 A report on an open COT meeting to discuss the possible role played by exposure to chemicals, that may be in the environment and our diet, on declining male reproductive health in some populations around the world has just been published.

Seminar for food law enforcers Monday 20 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency is hosting a seminar on 6 February 2007, examining the different methods for finding out if food is what the label says it is.

Smart moves at the BBC Good Food Show Monday 20 November 2006 Ever seen a burger boogie? How about a tomato salsa? Well now's your chance! The FSA has launched its brand-new show 'Strictly Yum Dancing' at the BBC Good Food Show this week.

Agency welcomes Ofcom consultation Friday 17 November 2006 The Agency welcomes the opportunity to consider and comment on today's proposal from Ofcom, which announces proposed new restrictions on television advertising of food and drink products to children.

Agency survey of US long grain rice for unauthorised GM material Thursday 16 November 2006 A survey of American long grain rice at mills in the UK has found evidence of unauthorised genetically modified (GM) material, LLRICE601, in three out of the 31 samples tested.

Sainsbury's withdraws multi - pack crisps Thursday 16 November 2006 Sainsbury's has withdrawn certain batches of its own brand multi-pack crisps due to incorrect labelling information. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

SPAR withdraws own-brand flapjacks Thursday 16 November 2006 SPAR (UK) Ltd has withdrawn three varieties of its own-brand flapjacks because they do not have correct ingredients or allergy information on the packaging. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Aldi recalls seafood sticks Thursday 16 November 2006 Aldi has recalled all batches of Northern Catch Seafood sticks 250g due to possible microbiological contamination. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Contact all areas with FSA News A-Z Thursday 16 November 2006 An A-Z of Agency contacts is included in this month's issue of FSA News, which is published and available online.

Agency lists butchers authorised to remove vertebral column in 24 - 30 month old cattle Thursday 16 November 2006 Following harmonisation of UK specified risk material (SRM) controls with those applicable in other Member States, the UK has taken up a derogation, available under EU legislation, to allow specifically authorised butchers' shops to handle carcasses of 24 - 30 months cattle containing SRM vertebral column (SRM VC).

FSA surveys non-UK eggs for salmonella Wednesday 15 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency today publishes its findings of a survey of salmonella contamination in eggs produced outside the UK and on retail sale in England.

Packaging inks survey published Wednesday 15 November 2006 A survey of whether two chemicals used in packaging inks are getting into food has been published by the Agency today. None of the results are a worry for people's health.

ShhWeeties Toffee Popcorn withdrawn Monday 13 November 2006 Nature's Finest Foods Ltd has withdrawn ShhWeeties Toffee Popcorn 50g packs because they do not have the correct ingredients or allergy information on the label. The Food Standards Agency has issued a food alert for information.

Agency asks supplementary questions Monday 13 November 2006 Two food supplements are due to be added to the list of permitted vitamins and minerals from 6 April 2007.

Dunbia NI recalls meat products Friday 10 November 2006 A meat company, Dunbia Northern Ireland, is recalling a number of meat products after finding that an Over Thirty Month old cow has entered the food chain without being tested for BSE. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Milky's withdraws halloum cheese and yoghurt products Friday 10 November 2006 Milky's (UK) Ltd has withdrawn its own-brand Halloum Cheese packs and Natural Yoghurt pots because they were manufactured in unapproved premises. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Praise for Agency's use of science Friday 10 November 2006 Prime Minister Tony Blair and a report from the Commons' Science and Technology Select Committee have each cited the work of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in advising government and engaging the public in debate.

Statements on perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate Wednesday 8 November 2006 The independent Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT) has today published two statements on the tolerable daily intakes for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS).

Nutrition and health claims conference webcast Wednesday 8 November 2006 The European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) three day conference in Bologna, Italy, on nutrition and health claims runs until 10 November. The final day was webcast live, beginning at 9.30am (Central European Time), 8.30am (Greenwich Mean Time).

Comments wanted on draft national control plan guidance Wednesday 8 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency is seeking views on draft European Commission guidelines on preparing annual reports on the implementation of national control plans (NCPs) which are required by Regulation 882/2004 on official controls.

Pesticide minimisation guidance published Tuesday 7 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency today published guides covering five principal UK crops: apples, pears, cereals, potatoes and tomatoes.

Legal challenge on GM rice Monday 6 November 2006 Friends of the Earth have filed a legal challenge against the Food Standards Agency over its handling of the contamination of American long grain rice with unauthorised GM material.

Hygiene scheme boost for Scottish consumers Monday 6 November 2006 Scottish consumers can now see how well local food businesses have done in hygiene inspections thanks to a two-year pilot scheme being launched today.

Heinz recalls Chicken and Mushroom Toast Toppers Friday 3 November 2006 H J Heinz Co. Ltd has recalled a batch of its Chicken and Mushroom Toast Toppers because of a packaging error, which means the ingredients and allergy information are incorrect.

Waitrose recalls chicken breast chunks Friday 3 November 2006 Waitrose has recalled a batch of Frozen Chicken Breast Chunks 300g due to a packing error resulting in incorrect labelling information. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

NISA-Today withdraws sausage and pork luncheon meat packs Friday 3 November 2006 Nisa-Today has withdrawn batches of its own brand Heritage Garlic Sausage and Heritage Pork Luncheon Meat packs, because of a labelling error resulting in incorrect allergen information. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Oatcakes recalled because they may contain glass Friday 3 November 2006 Simmers of Edinburgh has recalled certain batches of Nairn's Organic Herb Oatcakes because they could have been contaminated with glass. The Food Standards Agency Scotland has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Waitrose recalls a batch of cottage cheese Friday 3 November 2006 Waitrose has recalled a batch of its own-brand Natural Cottage Cheese because it could contain small pieces of rubber. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Schools network is a class act Thursday 2 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency has developed a school council network with nine schools across England. The main purpose of the network is to listen and understand the views of children and young people, especially in relation to food.

A guide to food law regulations Thursday 2 November 2006 The Food Standards Agency has issued new draft guidance notes on the General Food Law Regulation (EC) 178/2002. A consultation on the guidance is also underway to ensure that the final published version will be of the greatest help to the widest range of stakeholders.

Asda recalls own-brand Simply Porridge product Wednesday 1 November 2006 Asda has recalled all batches of its own-brand 500g packs of 'Simply Porridge' because some may contain nuts, making it unsafe to eat for people with a nut allergy. The Agency has issued a food alert for information.

Local authority audit published Monday 30 October 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Edinburgh is now available online.

UK list of health claims: information from FSA Wales Friday 27 October 2006 A new European regulation, aimed at increasing consumer protection in relation to nutrition and health claims made on food, will require such claims to be on a Community list of permitted claims.

Agency's research needs published Thursday 26 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency today published its latest list of requirements for research needed to support its work.

Update on illegal GM rice: 26 October 2006 Thursday 26 October 2006 Following the contamination of long grain rice in the USA with unauthorised GM material, European Member States have agreed on additional testing requirements to make sure that no illegal GM material enters the European Union.

Garlic and speciality bread products recalled Thursday 26 October 2006 New Primebake Ltd has recalled some batches of garlic and speciality bread products, sold in major supermarkets, because they could be contaminated with metal.

New look for Agency website Wednesday 25 October 2006 A redesign for the Agency's main website, food.gov.uk, was launched today. It aims to give the website a more contemporary feel while bringing it up to date with the latest accessibility and useability standards.

Opening up in Swansea Tuesday 24 October 2006 As part of its ongoing commitment to openness, the Welsh Food Advisory Committee of FSA Wales is holding an open meeting in Swansea on Tuesday 7 November.

Radioactivity report published Monday 23 October 2006 The radioactivity people absorb through food and drink remained below the EU legal limit during 2005, says a report published today by the Agency.

All aboard the Cooking Bus Monday 23 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency's Cooking Bus is paying its first visit to Northern Ireland to bring its messages of healthy and safe cooking and eating to the Province.

Applying EU hygiene regs in the dairy sector Friday 20 October 2006 The Agency has today written to enforcement authorities across the UK outlining a revised approach to the application of EU hygiene rules in the dairy sector.

Agency produces nutrient guidance for care homes Thursday 19 October 2006 The Agency has published nutrient and food-based guidance for residential care homes for older people.

Grants support local food hygiene and nutrition schemes Wednesday 18 October 2006 Twelve local authorities have been awarded grants of between £7,000 and £15,000 by the Food Standards Agency to promote food hygiene and healthy eating messages.

Agency opens UK list of health claims Wednesday 18 October 2006 A new European regulation aimed at increasing consumer protection in relation to nutrition and health claims made on food, will require such claims to be on a Community list of permitted claims.

October Board update Monday 16 October 2006 If you missed the last Food Standards Agency open Board meeting, or want to see any or all of it again, you can now access it as video or audio-on-demand.

Specialist committees assist policy making Monday 16 October 2006 FSA Chief Scientist Andrew Wadge explains the contribution made by specialist scientific advisory committees to the work of the Agency, in the latest issue of FSA News, which is published and available online.

Agency seeks views on European Commission training strategy Friday 13 October 2006 The FSA is seeking views on the European Commission's 'Better Training for Safer Food' strategy.

Sainsbury's withdraws wrongly dated beef joint Friday 13 October 2006 Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd. has withdrawn its own brand 'Taste the Difference Traditional Beef Joint', due to the wrong use-by date inadvertently being applied. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

New members for ACAF Friday 13 October 2006 Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured) today announced a new appointment and two re-appointments to the Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs.

FSA Wales launches 2007 AFAL awards Friday 13 October 2006 Food Standards Agency Wales is inviting applications for the 2007 AFAL (Awards for Food Action Locally) Award.

Agency updates consumers on suspected malicious tampering Thursday 12 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency is urging consumers to be vigilant about the risk of foreign objects that have been found in the packaging of Kingsmill sliced bread produced by Allied Bakeries at its Orpington bakery in Kent.

Sainsbury's withdraws a batch of its muesli Thursday 12 October 2006 Sainsbury's has withdrawn a batch of 1.5kg bags of its own-brand Fruit and Nut Muesli because there are moths in the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

FSA interim Chief Executive's contract extended Thursday 12 October 2006 John Harwood has agreed to remain in post as Food Standards Agency Chief Executive for an extended period, it was announced at the Agency's open Board meeting in Belfast today.

Fresher Food for students in Northern Ireland Thursday 12 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland and the University of Ulster have joined forces to create and launch a comprehensive student survival booklet on diet and nutrition for first year students - Fresher Food.

Sainsbury's recalls tortilla chip product Thursday 12 October 2006 Sainsbury's has recalled 150g packs of its own-brand 'Taste The Difference Lightly Salted Tortilla Chips' because a packaging error has led to them having the wrong allergen labelling information. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Catching on to two a week Wednesday 11 October 2006 A fishing trawler dropped its nets at Belfast's City Hall recently hoping to catch the public's interest in eating two portions of seafood a week and mark the launch of Seafood Week from 6-13 October 2006.

Local authority audit published Tuesday 10 October 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Leeds is now available online.

Response to EC proposals to set maximum vitamin and mineral levels in food Monday 9 October 2006 The UK Government has published its response to a European Commission discussion paper to set maximum levels of vitamins and minerals in food.

EU action against UK dairy Friday 6 October 2006 A European Commission proposal to take safeguard measures against a UK dairy due to serious breaches of European Union food safety rules has been agreed by the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCaH) today.

Spearheading healthier eating Thursday 5 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency and the Department of Health have established a Nutrition Strategy Steering Group (NSSG), jointly chaired by FSA Chair, Deirdre Hutton and Public Health Minister, Caroline Flint.

Illegal GM rice update: 5 October 2006 Thursday 5 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency attended a meeting on 3 October 2006 with the US authorities and the European Commission to discuss the contamination of US long grain rice with genetically modified (GM) material, LLRICE601.

Quaker Oats batch withdrawn Thursday 5 October 2006 Quaker Oats Ltd has withdrawn 750 of its 1kg cartons of 'Quaker Oats with free measuring cup' due to the presence of moth pupae and larvae. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Have your say on openness Wednesday 4 October 2006 The Food Standards Agency is reviewing its policy of being open and accessible to consumers and stakeholders.

Views needed on iron ingredient Tuesday 3 October 2006 A company has applied to the Agency to sell ferric sodium EDTA as a novel food ingredient.

Weaning foods survey published Tuesday 3 October 2006 The Agency has today published a survey that measured the levels of 15 metals and other elements in samples of weaning foods and formula for infants. The levels found do not pose a health concern for babies.

Sheila McKechnie award 2007 Monday 2 October 2006 The Agency has launched the third round of the Dame Sheila McKechnie Award. The awards assist community food initiatives to develop innovative approaches to tackling issues around food inequality.

Consulting on rapidly-developing policy Friday 29 September 2006 The Agency has developed a new section on this website to help stakeholders get involved at an earlier stage and make a more meaningful contribution to consultations on rapidly-changing EU and associated domestic legislation.

Agency advice on bottled Zam Zam water Thursday 28 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency is advising consumers not to drink bottled water on sale that is labelled as Zam Zam water, as it may contain high levels of arsenic.

Board update September 2006 Tuesday 26 September 2006 You can now access the Food Standards Agency's Open Board Meeting, held in London on 21 September 2006, as video and audio-on-demand.

Hygiene pack for Scottish food retailers launched Monday 25 September 2006 Two new resources are available for businesses in Scotland to help them comply with food hygiene legislation that came into force on 1 January 2006.

Waitrose recalls two own brand ready meals Friday 22 September 2006 Waitrose has recalled two of its own-brand Oriental ready meals, after a packaging error led to them having incorrect allergen labelling information. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Nor-Sea Foods recalls hot smoked salmon Friday 22 September 2006 The Agency is advising people not to eat certain batches of Morrisons Scottish Hot Smoked Salmon that have been recalled by its suppliers. A Food Alert for Information has been issued.

Latest FSA News published and online Thursday 21 September 2006 The September issue of FSA News, the Agency's newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Agency seeks a Deputy Chair and Board members Wednesday 20 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency is seeking a new Deputy Chair and two new Board members.

Keep Well This Winter Wednesday 20 September 2006 As part of its continuing involvement in the Welsh Assembly Government 'Keep Well This Winter' (KWTW) campaign, FSA Wales is committed to providing advice and information on healthy eating and food safety to the over 65s.

Fresher Food: A Student Survival Guide to Food Wednesday 20 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland, in conjunction with the University of Ulster, will shortly be launching �Fresher Food - A Student Survival Guide to Food'.

Nutritional differences between organic and non-organic milk Tuesday 19 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency has concluded an assessment of the evidence provided by the University of Glasgow, on the nutritional differences between organic and non-organic milk.

Lidl withdraws cans of baked beans with pork sausages Tuesday 19 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency is warning people to avoid a certain batch of Sunnyglade canned Baked Beans with Pork Sausages in tomato sauce.

Views needed on shiitake extract Monday 18 September 2006 A Danish company has asked the Agency to rule on whether its food supplement is substantially equivalent to one already approved for use.

EFSA opinion on the safety of GM rice Friday 15 September 2006 The European Food Safety Authority has today published its risk assessment of imported long grain rice containing traces of LLRICE601.

Appliance of science Thursday 14 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency today launched a recruitment campaign for Scientific Officers based at its London offices.

EC strengthens aflatoxin controls Thursday 14 September 2006 The European Commission has expanded and reinforced the border-control measures it has taken to protect consumers from aflatoxin contaminated products. The new measures will come into force on 1 October 2006.

Eat Safe success in Northern Ireland Tuesday 12 September 2006 The Eat Safe scheme continues to be a great success across Northern Ireland, with the number of award winners currently standing at 230 and rising.

New members appointed to advisory committee Tuesday 12 September 2006 The Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee (NIFAC) has recently announced the appointment of five new members. The Committee�s role is to advise the Food Standards Agency on food safety and standards issues, with particular focus on Northern Ireland.

Mussels with high toxin levels update Monday 11 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency today issued a Food Alert for information following Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group's withdrawal of a batch of mussels due to the presence of paralytic shellfish poison above statutory limits.

Consulting on good manufacturing practice Monday 11 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency is seeking views concerning European Commission working papers on regulation of good manufacturing practice and active and intelligent materials.

Local authority audit published Friday 8 September 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for South Ayrshire is now available online.

Vacuum and modified atmosphere packing training for enforcement officers Friday 8 September 2006 Update training is available to local authority food law enforcement officers in England. This popular course is part of the continuing programme of quality update training for enforcers at a cost that is affordable to local authorities.

Food safety gets £4m boost Thursday 7 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency has awarded grants worth more than £4m to help food businesses implement Safer food, better business, the food safety management pack that offers simple, practical guidance for small catering and retail businesses.

ACMSF publishes report on infant botulism Thursday 7 September 2006 The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) has published a report on chilled and frozen baby foods, concluding that there is no evidence to suggest that these foods have caused infant botulism.

Views sought on animal feed guidance Wednesday 6 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency has published draft guidance on the labelling of compound animal feeds (feeds with two or more ingredients). The EC rules mean that manufacturers must declare all ingredients according to their percentage by weight within a tolerance of 15%.

New ACNFP member wanted Wednesday 6 September 2006 The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes is looking for a new member who is an expert on consumer and lay issues.

Agency consults on improvement agents Tuesday 5 September 2006 The FSA has issued a consultation document on new EU proposed regulations for improvement agents in food.

New Chair wanted for ACMSF Monday 4 September 2006 Food Standards Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured left) is inviting applications for a new Chair of the Advisory Committee of the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF).

Testing to be carried out for illegal GM rice Friday 1 September 2006 The Food Standards Agency is taking action to ensure that testing and monitoring is carried out on consignments of American long grain rice in the UK.

Walkers withdraws batches of salt and vinegar squares Friday 1 September 2006 Walkers Snack Foods Ltd has withdrawn certain batches of its own brand Salt and Vinegar Squares, due to packaging errors resulting in incorrect labelling information.

Agency consults on farm hygiene Thursday 31 August 2006 New enforcement measures are required to implement European Union food hygiene legislation on farms in the UK. The Agency has launched a consultation on the proposed measures.

Advisory committee appointments Thursday 31 August 2006 The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes today announced the appointment of several new committee members, following a national recruitment exercise.

Comments wanted on phytosterol Tuesday 29 August 2006 A French company has asked the Agency to rule on whether its phytosterol is substantially equivalent to one already approved for use in various food categories.

Court condemns meat from NI coldstore Tuesday 22 August 2006 The Food Standards Agency has welcomed a court decision yesterday, 21 August 2006, to condemn meat seized during an investigation into a coldstore in Northern Ireland.

Local authority audit published Tuesday 22 August 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Moray is now available online.

Vitamins and minerals stakeholder meeting Tuesday 22 August 2006 The Food Standards Agency is to hold a second meeting with stakeholders on its draft response to a European Commission (EC) discussion document on setting maximum levels for vitamins and minerals in foodstuffs.

Glucosamine hydrochloride application Monday 21 August 2006 The Agency has received an application to use glucosamine hydrochloride in a range of foods, including smoothies and sports drinks.

Call for views on echium oil Wednesday 16 August 2006 The Agency has received an application to use refined echium oil as a novel food ingredient.

Iceland withdraws Chinese meal product Wednesday 16 August 2006 Iceland Foods Ltd has withdrawn a batch of its own-brand Chinese Takeaway Chicken in Blackbean Sauce due to a packaging error.

Comments needed on phytosterol application Tuesday 15 August 2006 A Spanish company has asked the Agency's expert advisers on novel foods to consider its application for a phytosterol ingredient under the simplified approval procedure.

Aldi pasta sauce batches recalled Tuesday 15 August 2006 Aldi Stores Ltd has recalled all batches of Romano Pasta Sauce and Romano Mushroom Pasta Sauce because some could contain particles of glass.

New MHS Chief Executive appointed Monday 14 August 2006 The Food Standards Agency has appointed Steve McGrath as the new Chief Executive of the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS). He will take up post on 22 January 2007 when the existing Chief Executive, Chris Lawson, retires from the public service.

Call for views on baobab ingredient Monday 14 August 2006 Comments are needed on an application to the Agency to use baobab fruit pulp as an ingredient in smoothies and cereal bars.

Iceland withdraws own brand Derby scones Friday 11 August 2006 Iceland Frozen Foods Ltd has withdrawn a batch of its own brand Derby Scones 6 pack, due to the undeclared presence of egg, which makes this product unsafe for individuals who are allergic to eggs.

Agency Chair visits FSA funded projects Thursday 10 August 2006 Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton visited Liverpool and Manchester this week to see how FSA funding in food education and community food initiatives has been helping people improve their diet and cooking skills.

Open meeting in Cardiff for advisory committee Thursday 10 August 2006 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee (WFAC) will hold an open meeting in St David's Hall in Cardiff on 6 September 2006.

Contaminants guidance published in Northern Ireland Thursday 10 August 2006 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland has published guidance notes to introduce the Contaminants in Food Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.

City Food Lecture to debate organic food Thursday 3 August 2006 The 2007 City Food Lecture will be sponsored for the first time by the Food Standards Agency. The keynote speaker will be Lord Peter Melchett (pictured) of the Soil Association, who will talk about organic food.

MHS Annual Report and Accounts 2005/06 Tuesday 1 August 2006 The eleventh annual report and audited accounts of the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) has been published and is now available online. The MHS is an Executive Agency of the Food Standards Agency.

Further batches of baby food withdrawn Tuesday 1 August 2006 Truuuly Scrumptious Organic Baby Food Ltd has recalled further batches of its own-brand frozen baby foods because some could contain small pieces of plastic. This follows an earlier withdrawal, for the same reason, on 21 July 2006.

Cadbury recall update 1 August 2006 Monday 31 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Information after being notified by Cadbury Schweppes that it intends to restock five of the product lines that were recalled on 23 June 2006 due to possible contamination with salmonella.

Call for comments on draft regulation on contaminants Monday 31 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency is seeking comments on a draft European Commission (EC) regulation that will consolidate and replace Commission Regulation 466/2001 as amended.

Agency consults on draft National Control Plan Thursday 27 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency and the UK Agriculture Departments are seeking views on the feed and food elements and the plant health elements of a draft UK National Control Plan, as required by EU regulation.

Ban on kava kava in food to remain Wednesday 26 July 2006 A ban on the use of kava kava – a herbal ingredient previously used in some cereal bars, teas and smoothies – is to continue in the UK.

Metals, dioxins, and PCBs surveys published Wednesday 26 July 2006 The Agency has today published three surveys investigating levels of metals, dioxins and PCBs in foods, with two of the surveys focusing on offal.

Views sought on noni juice opinion Tuesday 25 July 2006 The expert scientific committee that advises the Agency on novel foods is calling for comments on its draft opinion of a noni juice product.

Agency seeks views on quick-frozen food rules Tuesday 25 July 2006 The Agency in Scotland is consulting on Quick-Frozen Foods Regulations, which will implement European Union standards on temperature monitoring equipment for quick-frozen foods.

Agency advises against eating raw fly agaric mushrooms Monday 24 July 2006 The Agency is advising people not to eat raw or dried 'fly agaric' mushrooms, because there have been cases reported of severe reactions. These mushrooms may also be labelled as 'ibotenic acid/muscimol'.

Batches of frozen baby food withdrawn Friday 21 July 2006 Truuuly Scrumptious Organic Baby Food Ltd has withdrawn certain batches of its own-brand frozen baby foods because some could contain small pieces of orange plastic. The Food Standards Agency has issued a food alert for information.

Food hygiene video online Wednesday 19 July 2006 The FSA's Bacteria Bite Business video, which demonstrates the importance of good food hygiene, is now available to watch online.

Health claims guidance updated Wednesday 19 July 2006 A review of voluntary guidelines that advise manufacturers how to submit evidence on which health claims on food labels are based found a high level of user satisfaction, but also recommended a number of improvements.

FSA Board update July 2006 Friday 14 July 2006 You can now watch this week's Food Standards Agency open Board meeting, held in Cardiff on 13 July 2006, as video or audio-on-demand.

Latest FSA News now online Thursday 13 July 2006 The July issue of FSA News, the Agency's newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Board member resignation Thursday 13 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency today announced that Alan Gardner has resigned from the Board with immediate effect.

United Biscuits recalls batches of Go Ahead! products Wednesday 12 July 2006 United Biscuits has recalled certain batches of its Go Ahead! Crispy Fruit Slices and Yoghurt Breaks. The affected batches may contain small pieces of thin metal wire.

Local authority audits published Tuesday 11 July 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for East Lindsey and Lincolnshire are now available online.

Lead Auditor training for enforcement officers Tuesday 11 July 2006 Lead Auditor update training is available to local authority food law enforcement officers in England. This training course is part of the continuing programme of quality update training for enforcers at a cost that is affordable to local authorities.

Guide on allergy labelling published Monday 10 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency has today issued guidance to help food producers and retailers improve their labelling advice for people with allergies.

Agency's salt ad is back on the air Monday 10 July 2006 The Agency's salt campaign has returned to TV with a high-profile slot. The 10-second ad is a shorter version of last year's, featuring animated food products comparing their salt levels. It will be shown during summer and autumn 2006 to maintain awareness of the salt campaign's key messages.

Vitamins and minerals in supplements and fortified foods update 10 July 2006 Monday 10 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency is planning to hold two meetings with stakeholders on a European Commission (EC) discussion paper to set maximum levels of vitamins and minerals in food.

Marca Pina Soy Sauce contaminated Monday 10 July 2006 Batches of Marca Pina Soy Sauce (1 litre) have been found to be contaminated with excess levels of chloropropanols. The FSA has issued a Food Alert for Action.

Grants for food safety training Sunday 9 July 2006 The Food Standards Agency today announced an additional million pounds for local authority grants to boost existing funding to train small retailers and caterers in food safety.

Agency Deputy Chair appointed to Joseph Rowntree Foundation Thursday 6 July 2006 Julia Unwin, Deputy Chair of the Food Standards Agency, is to be the new Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, one of the UK�s largest housing and social policy research charities.

Calls for latest research now online Thursday 6 July 2006 The Agency has published the latest list of research and survey work that it needs to commission.

VPC report on growth hormones in meat Thursday 6 July 2006 A report examining the use of growth hormones in food-producing animals, such as cattle, has been published by the Veterinary Products Committee (VPC).

Review published on effects of diet on children's learning Wednesday 5 July 2006 The Agency has today published a systematic review into the effect of diet and nutrition on children's learning, education and school performance.

Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH) meeting: 26 June 2006 Wednesday 5 July 2006 The Agency has updated stakeholders on the SCoFCAH meeting on 26 June 2006. The agenda included two items on foods for particular nutritional uses (Parnuts foods). The update requests comments on the recast Directive on infant formula and follow-on formula by 10 July 2006.

Science Strategy 2005-10 published Tuesday 4 July 2006 The Agency's Science Strategy 2005-10 is now published and available online. Its publication follows a public consultation in summer 2005 and discussion by the Agency's Board in open session in February 2006.

Draft guidance on temperature control legislation Tuesday 4 July 2006 As a result of changes in European food hygiene regulations on 1 January 2006, the Agency intends to issue new guidance on temperature control legislation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. A draft of this guidance is now available and comments are being sought before the final guidance is issued.

FSA delivers response to Ofcom consultation Monday 3 July 2006 Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton has written to Ofcom in response to the independent communications regulator's consultation on options for tightening controls on the TV advertising of food to children.

Wine Standards Board merges with FSA Monday 3 July 2006 The Wine Standards Board (WSB), the non-Governmental body responsible for wine-making practices, labelling of wine and the UK vineyard register, merged with the Agency on 1 July.

Butchers get guide on removal of bovine SRM Friday 30 June 2006 The Agency and the Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC) have jointly produced an illustrated guide for authorised butchers, explaining how to remove specified risk material (SRM) vertebral column (backbone) correctly from cattle aged between 24 and 30 months.

Survey of high dose vitamin and mineral supplements Friday 30 June 2006 The Agency has published a survey of the high dose vitamin and mineral supplements market in the UK.

Views wanted on algal extract Thursday 29 June 2006 The Agency's advisers on novel foods are calling for views on an application to use a colouring made from algae in dietary supplements.

Hygiene and speciality cheese making training for enforcement officers Thursday 29 June 2006 Training is available to local authority food law enforcement officers responsible for the inspection of premises producing speciality cheeses in England. The course is part of the continuing programme of quality update training for enforcers at a cost that is affordable to local authorities.

Food and fun at Loughry College Wednesday 28 June 2006 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) recently attended a 'family food and fun day' at Loughry College, Cookstown to provide advice on healthy eating and food safety. Children were given free gifts promoting healthy eating.

Eat Safe everywhere in Northern Ireland Wednesday 28 June 2006 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) staff are celebrating the growing success of the Eat Safe award scheme. Not only have they reached the milestone of their 200th award winner in Northern Ireland, but they now have award winners in each of the 26 District Council areas.

Food Law Code of Practice for Northern Ireland Wednesday 28 June 2006 The Agency has issued the Food Law Code of Practice and associated Practice Guidance for Northern Ireland.

FSANI keynote speaker at Northern Ireland salt seminar Wednesday 28 June 2006 A seminar to raise awareness of the relationship between salt and health was held recently at Northern Ireland�s Loughry, College where interested parties came together to debate the issue of salt levels in processed food products.

FSA chair speaks to TSI Tuesday 27 June 2006 FSA Chair, Deirdre Hutton, gave a speech at the Trading Standards Institute Annual Conference on 21 June 2006. The text of the speech is now available online.

Local authority audits published Monday 26 June 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Angus, Sheffield, Warrington and Wirral are now available online.

Unilever recalls packs of Flora Original Spread 1kg Thursday 22 June 2006 Unilever UK has recalled selected packs of Flora Original Spread, due to the presence of an undesirable flavour in the product. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Still time to apply for English SFBB grants Wednesday 21 June 2006 The deadline for applications for the second tranche of Safer food, better business (SFBB) special grants in England is 30 June 2006.

Virtual networking becomes a reality for Nutrition Network for Wales Wednesday 21 June 2006 Virtual networking will become a reality for the Nutrition Network for Wales with the launch of new websites in both English and Welsh.

Surveys for brominated and fluorinated chemicals Wednesday 21 June 2006 The Agency has today published the results of two surveys into the levels of brominated and fluorinated chemicals in the diet.

FSA Wales announces AFAL award winners 2006 Wednesday 21 June 2006 FSA Wales has announced the community projects that have won the 2006 Award for Food Action Locally (AFAL).

Advice for wheat farmers published Tuesday 20 June 2006 The Agency has published advice to help farmers reduce fusarium mycotoxins in wheat.

Comments on novel food needed Tuesday 20 June 2006 The Agency is seeking comments on an application to approve an ice structuring protein preparation as a novel food ingredient.

Review of research linking diet and behaviour in children Tuesday 20 June 2006 The Agency is currently conducting a systematic review of research looking at the effect of nutrition and diet on performance and behaviour of children in schools.

June 2006 Board update Tuesday 20 June 2006 The Agency held an open Board meeting on 15 June in Bristol. The meeting, chaired by FSA Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured), was attended by about 40 people and viewed on a live webcast by about 450.

Latest FSA News published and online Monday 19 June 2006 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency's external newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Special Offer Supplies recalls Jelly Mishapes Friday 16 June 2006 Special Offer Supplies (SOS) Derby has recalled certain batches of Jelly Mishapes because they might contain small pieces of wood.

Thomas Tunnock wafers withdrawn Friday 16 June 2006 Thomas Tunnock has recalled certain batches of its own brand four and eight carton Snowballs, and four pack Caramel Log Wafers, because of a packaging error that could have led to them having incorrect labelling information on them.

Salmonella survey 15 June 2006 Thursday 15 June 2006 At its meeting in Bristol today, the Food Standards Agency Board was informed of a survey by the European Food Safety Authority of salmonella in chickens kept for egg production (laying flocks) across Europe.

Sainsbury's recalls own-brand canned tuna Thursday 15 June 2006 Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd has recalled one date code of its own-brand canned Tuna Steak in Spring Water and canned Tuna Steak in Brine, due to a suspected can defect.

Task force consultation published Thursday 15 June 2006 The Agency today published, for comment, a draft document from the Food Incidents Task Force on how to prevent and respond to food incidents.

Omega seeds recalled due to salmonella contamination Wednesday 14 June 2006 Julian Graves Ltd has recalled certain batches of its own brand Omega Seed Mix 500g, due to the presence of salmonella. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

FSA Scotland hopes to make net gains Wednesday 14 June 2006 FSA Scotland is hoping for net gains when it comes to recognition of its diet and nutrition messages, following a sponsorship agreement with the Scottish Netball Team.

FSA Board responds to Ofcom consultation Tuesday 13 June 2006 The FSA Board today agreed its response to the Ofcom consultation on options for tightening the controls on the TV advertising of food to children.

Time to chill Monday 12 June 2006 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland is marking this year's National Food Safety Week (12-18 June) by highlighting how to store food safely in the fridge.

Hot tips for barbecues Friday 9 June 2006 Make sure your sizzling sausages are properly cooked by checking out the Agency's barbecue advert on TV this weekend.

Pluma UK recalls pate Friday 9 June 2006 Pluma UK Ltd has recalled a batch of La Rochelle brand Duck Orange & Cream Pate 150g and Farmhouse Style Pate 150g, because they have been labelled wrongly.

Revision of EC novel food regulation Thursday 8 June 2006 The European Commission has launched an online consultation as the first step in a project to revise the novel food regulation.

FSA Wales launches 'Foodbusters' interactive game Tuesday 6 June 2006 'Foodbusters' reinforces the importance of food safety and good hygiene practices at home in the kitchen and when handling food.

Scottish bakery recalls Crispie Cakes Friday 2 June 2006 North Lanarkshire-based Kerrs Bakery has recalled a batch of its Crispie Cakes (packs of 3) because some may contain metal fragments.

New members appointed to ACMSF Thursday 1 June 2006 Deirdre Hutton, Chair of the Food Standards Agency, today announced three new appointments to the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF). The appointments run from 1 April 2006.

Agency completes pilot of SFBB online forum Thursday 1 June 2006 The Agency's online forum to discuss Safer food, better business (SFBB) has now closed. The forum was piloted between 2 May and 31 May 2006 to allow people using the SFBB pack for caterers to share their views and experiences.

Agency launches SFBB for retailers Wednesday 31 May 2006 The Agency has launched a version of 'Safer food, better business' (SFBB) that is specially designed for small retail businesses across the UK.

British Bakeries recalls bread Wednesday 31 May 2006 British Bakeries has recalled a batch of its Scottish Plain Batch Bread 800g loaves, packed under the brand names Mother's Pride and Tesco, because they could contain metal fragments. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Kellogg's corn flakes taint advice Friday 26 May 2006 Kellogg Europe Trading Ltd has issued advice about a taint affecting a small number of packs within certain batches of Kellogg's Corn Flakes.

Last chance to have your say on the SFBB forum Wednesday 24 May 2006 The pilot of the online forum to discuss Safer food, better business (SFBB) ends on 31 May 2006. So log on now to share your views.

FSA seeks comments on nanotechnologies Wednesday 24 May 2006 The Agency is inviting comments on a draft report on the use of nanotechnologies in food manufacturing.

Updated fish list Wednesday 24 May 2006 From today, updated fish labelling regulations are in force across the UK.

Nutrition Labelling Directive discussion paper Wednesday 24 May 2006 The European Commission is consulting on a discussion paper relating to some technical issues raised by the Nutrition Labelling Directive 90/496/EEC.

Starting up - your first steps to running a catering business Monday 22 May 2006 The Agency has published a new edition of its popular booklet for new catering businesses.

Nutrient specifications for school caterers published Friday 19 May 2006 The Food Standards Agency has today published target nutrient specifications (TNS) for a range of manufactured foods used in school meals throughout the UK. The TNS have been developed to assist caterers in meeting the wider standards for school lunches.

Update: SACN report on folate and disease prevention delayed Friday 19 May 2006 The publication of the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition's (SACN) report on folate and disease has been delayed.

Chemicals in baby food surveyed Thursday 18 May 2006 The Agency has today published a survey into levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 208 samples of baby food and infant milk formula on sale in the UK at the time of sampling. Overall levels found were very low or undetectable and do not pose a health concern for babies or infants.

New tests to spot 'organic' labelling fraud Wednesday 17 May 2006 High Street retailers will soon be able to check if any of their supplies of chicken and pork have been mislabelled as 'organic', following the development of new testing methods for the Food Standards Agency.

Two new members for the FSA board Wednesday 17 May 2006 Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Health, has appointed Michael Parker and Dr Ian Reynolds to the Food Standards Agency Board. Dr Reynolds joined the board on 1 May 2006 and Mr Parker will join on 1 June 2006.

Foods contaminated with aflatoxins recalled Tuesday 16 May 2006 The Food Standards Agency is advising people not to eat certain foods made with rice flour that has been found to be contaminated with aflatoxin B1 over the legal limit.

Changes to the level of MHS time-based charges for Official Controls Tuesday 16 May 2006 Food Business Operators were told of the outcome of the consultation exercise on changes to the level of time-based charges made by the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) for Official Controls on 12 May 2006.

Views wanted on phytosterol novel food opinion Monday 15 May 2006 The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) is seeking views by 26 May on its draft opinion on an application to market a phytosterol ingredient extracted from tall oil. Tall oil is derived from sources such as pine trees.

Allied Bakeries recalls bread roll products Friday 12 May 2006 Allied Bakeries has recalled batches of several bread roll products due to the possible presence of small pieces of metal.

Bangor and mash Thursday 11 May 2006 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland is holding a meeting of its Food Advisory Committee on Wednesday 17 May 2006 in the Marine Court Hotel in Bangor to discuss food related issues.

Let the games begin Thursday 11 May 2006 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland will attend the Northern Ireland Youth Games on Saturday 13 May. Staff will be on hand during the event to give advice on healthy eating to budding athletes from schools across Northern Ireland.

Scottish guidance issued on ceramics Thursday 11 May 2006 The Food Standard Agency Scotland has published guidance for food businesses and local authority food enforcement teams on the Ceramic Articles in Contact with Food (Scotland) Regulations 2006. The new regulations come into force on 20 May and replace the Ceramic Ware (Safety) Regulations 1988.

Applications open for SFBB Special Grants Tuesday 9 May 2006 The Agency is inviting applications from local authorities in England for the second wave of funding to implement Safer food, better business (SFBB).

SFBB forum: log on and have your say Monday 8 May 2006 Log on to our discussion forum and share your good practice ideas about Safer food, better business (SFBB), the food safety management pack for caterers.

Improving diet in Wales Monday 8 May 2006 Food Standards Agency Wales is to hold this year's 'Food and Well Being' Nutrition Network for Wales conferences in May and June.

Local authority audit published Monday 8 May 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Wandsworth is now available online.

EFSA makes statement on aspartame Friday 5 May 2006 The European Food Safety Authority today announced the results of its evaluation of a new study on the sweetener aspartame.

Latest FSA News published and online Friday 5 May 2006 The latest issue of the Agency's newsletter, FSA News, has been published and is available online.

Fish product surveys published Thursday 4 May 2006 The Agency has published two surveys on metals and dioxins in processed fish and shellfish products.

Council gets imported food controls at Heathrow Thursday 27 April 2006 The London Borough of Hillingdon has been appointed as the single authority responsible for imported food controls at Heathrow Airport.

Long term classification of shellfish harvesting areas Wednesday 26 April 2006 The Food Standards Agency's long term classification (LTC) system for shellfish harvesting areas will be implemented in England and Wales from 2 May 2006.

Serious Food Company recalls desserts Tuesday 25 April 2006 The Serious Food Company Ltd has recalled two of its own brand desserts due to the possible presence of fragments of glass.

Win tickets to star-studded Soccer Six Tuesday 25 April 2006 Ten pairs of tickets can be won for the celebrity Soccer Six tournament in Birmingham next month, the event is part sponsored by eatwell, the Agency's advice and information website.

Commission training for enforcement practitioners Monday 24 April 2006 The European Commission has launched a new initiative, 'Better Training for Safer Food', for enforcement practitioners employed by the competent authorities in Member States.

On the trail with FSA Wales Friday 21 April 2006 The FSA Wales resource trailer is out and about through the year at a number of events across Wales.

Kebab meat from unapproved plant update Friday 21 April 2006 The Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Action in England, and one for information in Scotland, to inform local authorities about an emerging incident involving distribution of cooked kebab meat from an unapproved plant.

Mosimann eats safe Thursday 20 April 2006 The arrival of Anton Mosimann OBE caused a stir recently at the Chef Conference in the Market Place Theatre, Armagh. FSA Northern Ireland attended the event to promote the Eat Safe Award to chefs working at all levels across Northern Ireland.

High standards in Northern Ireland Thursday 20 April 2006 FSA Northern Ireland recently held a conference for Environmental Health Officers from across Northern Ireland involved in food standards work.

M&S recalls bean and spinach salad Thursday 20 April 2006 Marks & Spencer has recalled all batches of its own brand 3 Bean & Spinach Salad with Chive Dressing, 130g, due to incorrect labelling information. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Local authority enforcement activity data published Thursday 20 April 2006 The Food Standards Agency has published a summary of the 2003 and 2004/05 food law enforcement monitoring data sent to the Agency by local authorities.

Local authority audits published Wednesday 19 April 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Barnet, Redcar and Cleveland, Ealing and Norfolk are now available online.

Post-Chernobyl monitoring and controls Tuesday 11 April 2006 Three reports on the monitoring of sheep on farms remaining under post-Chernobyl restrictions were published today by the Agency.

Agency alerts consumers about possible risk from eating bitter apricot kernels Tuesday 11 April 2006 The Agency is warning people about the possible risk to health from excess consumption of bitter apricot kernels and is issuing advice on safe levels of use.

Boots withdraws Super Strength Fish Oil Capsules Tuesday 11 April 2006 The Boots Company plc has withdrawn two batches of its own brand Super Strength Fish Oil Capsules, packs of 60, due to the presence of dioxins.

Aldi withdraws blackcurrant squash containing benzene Tuesday 11 April 2006 Aldi Stores Ltd withdrew a batch of Hyberry High Juice Blackcurrant Squash on 31 March 2006 because it contained benzene at levels above 10 parts per billion (ppb).

Latest FSA News published and online Monday 10 April 2006 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency's external newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Morrisons and Silver Spring withdraw soft drinks containing benzene Monday 10 April 2006 The Silver Spring Mineral Water Co. Ltd and Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc withdrew products on 31 March 2006 because they contained benzene at levels above 10 parts per billion (ppb).

FSA Board sets up Food Fraud Task Force Friday 7 April 2006 At its open meeting on April 6, the Food Standards Agency Board agreed to set up a new Food Fraud Task Force, which will consider further actions to help tackle the trade in illegal food and protect consumers.

April 2006 Board update Friday 7 April 2006 The Agency held an Open Board Meeting in London on Thursday 6 April 2006. The meeting was chaired by FSA Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured) and attended by 90 stakeholders and members of the public.

Agency board discusses folate and health Thursday 6 April 2006 The Food Standards Agency Board has agreed to consult on options for improving the folate status of young women. Fortification of foods with folic acid could reduce the number of babies born with neurological diseases such as spina bifida.

Guidance on vegetarian and vegan labelling Thursday 6 April 2006 The Agency has published guidance for to improve food labelling for vegans and vegetarians.

Nutrition conferences in Wales Tuesday 4 April 2006 The Food Standards Agency Wales is to hold the 2006 'Food and Well Being' Nutrition Network for Wales conferences in May and June.

Microbiological safety research programme reviews Monday 3 April 2006 The Food Standards Agency is holding a two-day review of its domestic sector hygiene research programme as part of its wider evaluation of FSA microbiological safety research programmes.

Survey of benzene levels in soft drinks Friday 31 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency has today published the results of a survey to investigate levels of benzene in 150 soft drinks on sale in the UK. Benzene was not detectable in the majority of products sampled.

Update on applying EU feed and food controls Friday 31 March 2006 An update on the progress since January 2006 on the measures being taken to apply EU Regulation 882/2004 on official controls in the UK has been published by the Agency.

Survey of soya for GM material Thursday 30 March 2006 An Agency survey to investigate whether foods containing soya are correctly labelled to indicate whether they contain ingredients produced from genetically modified (GM) material, has found that all products complied with the law.

Agency's oily fish advice remains unchanged Wednesday 29 March 2006 The Agency continues to advise that people should eat at least two portions of fish per week, including one of oily fish, which is rich in omega 3.

Seven Seas Ltd product withdrawal update Thursday 23 March 2006 Seven Seas Ltd has added a further product to its list of supplements withdrawn due to the presence of dioxins. The Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Information.

Agency sponsors City Food Lecture Thursday 23 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency is one of three new sponsors of the City Food Lecture, the annual event that takes place at London's historic Guildhall.

New salt reduction targets published Tuesday 21 March 2006 The Agency has published voluntary salt reduction targets for food manufacturers and retailers to further encourage a reduction in the amount of salt in a wide range of processed foods.

Interim chief executive appointed Tuesday 21 March 2006 John Harwood (pictured) has been appointed interim chief executive of the Food Standards Agency. He takes up the post following Agency chief executive Jon Bell's departure at the end of this month, when his contract finishes.

Morrisons withdraws own brand hot cross buns and white bread baps Monday 20 March 2006 Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc has withdrawn certain batches of its own brand Hot Cross Buns and Soft Sliced White Bread Baps because some could contain small pieces of metal.

Labelling stakeholder meeting and seminar Friday 17 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency is holding a stakeholder meeting on 21 April 2006 to help inform its eight-week consultation on the European Commission discussion paper 'Labelling: Competitiveness, Consumer Information and Better Regulation for the EU.'

Agency research gets quality assurance audit Friday 17 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) have initiated an audit programme to determine whether research projects funded after 1 June 2004 are being carried out in compliance with the Joint Code of Practice for Research.

Welsh Food Advisory Committee to meet in Wrexham Friday 17 March 2006 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee of FSA Wales is holding an Open Business meeting in Wrexham on Wednesday, 29 March. Anyone with an interest in food is invited to attend this meeting and to share their views on issues that matter to them, and to comment on the business meeting during an open question and answer session.

Student Placement Scheme at local authorities in England Friday 17 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency invites local authorities in England to apply for funding for an additional Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) or Trading Standards Officer (TSO) student placement at their authority.

Farley's recalls soya formula Friday 17 March 2006 Farley's has withdrawn from sale a single batch of Farley's Soya Formula in 900g cans, because routine testing has shown it contains cows' milk, although the product is labelled as suitable for a milk and lactose-free diet. The Agency has issued a food alert for information.

Proactive Investigation Skills training for enforcement officers Wednesday 15 March 2006 Proactive Investigation Skills update training is available to local authority food law enforcement officers in England. The course is part of the continuing programme of quality update training for enforcers at a cost that is affordable to local authorities.

New director of communications appointed Wednesday 15 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency has appointed Terrence Collis (pictured) as its new Director of Communications.

Seven Seas Ltd withdraws some food supplements Tuesday 14 March 2006 Seven Seas Ltd has withdrawn a number of batches of its own-brand food supplements because of the presence of dioxins.

Agency Board member's term of office extended Tuesday 14 March 2006 The Secretary of State for Health has invited Chrissie Dunn (pictured), a member of the Food Standards Agency Board since March 2003, to serve for a further period of two years, to 28 February 2008. Her current appointment expired on 28 February 2006.

March 2006 Board update Monday 13 March 2006 The Agency held an Open Board Meeting in Glasgow on Thursday 9 March 2006. The meeting was chaired by FSA Chair Deirdre Hutton and attended by 70 stakeholders and members of the public.

Harmonisation of specified risk material (SRM) controls Monday 13 March 2006 The Agency has published responses received to a consultation, launched by the UK's four rural affairs departments, on the harmonisation of specified risk material (SRM) controls applicable in the UK, with those in other EU Member States.

Morrisons and Co-op withdraw beef paste Monday 13 March 2006 Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc and the Co-operative Group Supermarkets have withdrawn their own-brand beef paste due to incorrect labelling information.

Atypical scrapie in sheep and goats update: 13 March 2006 Monday 13 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency is keeping consumers informed about the situation relating to the emerging evidence on atypical scrapie in sheep and goats following its open Board meeting of 9 March 2006.

Food Law Code of Practice Friday 10 March 2006 The Agency has issued the Food Law Code of Practice and associated Practice Guidance for England.

Latest FSA News published and online Friday 10 March 2006 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency's external newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Board agrees principles for front of pack labelling Thursday 9 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency Board has agreed its recommendation for a consistent approach to front of pack labelling that will help make it easier for people to choose a healthier diet.

Latest research requirements published Thursday 9 March 2006 The Agency has published the latest list of research and survey work that it needs to commission.

Agency begins UK meat plant approval programme Thursday 9 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency has begun an ongoing programme of approval visits to all UK meat plants.

Vacuum and modified atmosphere packing training for enforcement officers Thursday 9 March 2006 In February Food Liaison Groups in England were invited to book dates to host the training course. Following a very positive response the Agency has agreed the dates and locations of the course.

Tryptophan in Foods (England) Regulations 2005 update Wednesday 8 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency has updated interested parties about the 2005 Tryptophan in Foods regulations after taking independent scientific advice from the Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT) and requests from stakeholders.

Irradiated food supplement withdrawal update Friday 3 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Information in relation to Ferrosan Ltd's withdrawal of Imedeen Prime Renewal food supplements due to the undeclared presence of irradiated white tea extract.

Update on benzene in soft drinks Thursday 2 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency is to conduct its own tests into the possible presence of benzene in soft drinks in the UK.

Call for new committee members Thursday 2 March 2006 Four new members are needed for the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes.

Local authority audit published Thursday 2 March 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report for Hambleton is now available online.

Benzene in soft drinks Wednesday 1 March 2006 Following reports of benzene in some soft drinks in the US, the Food Standards Agency asked the soft drinks industry to measure levels in the UK.

We're getting more health-conscious, survey shows Wednesday 1 March 2006 The Food Standards Agency's sixth Consumer Attitudes to Food survey shows we are taking a more active interest in our food and diet, with more of us checking labels and trying to eat more fruit and vegetables.

Secondment opportunity at LACORS: food the local vision Tuesday 28 February 2006 The Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services (LACORS) and the Food Standards Agency are looking to appoint a secondee to continue the Food Vision work that aims to help improve community health and well-being.

Hygiene guide for businesses published Monday 27 February 2006 The Food Standards Agency has published an updated guide for food businesses that explains the key requirements of new hygiene regulations that apply in the UK.

Spice firm fined over illegal dye Thursday 23 February 2006 The Food Standards Agency has welcomed the successful prosecution by Essex County Council of East Anglian Food Ingredients Ltd (EAFI) for the sale of Hot Curry Powder containing the illegal dye Sudan I.

Sainsbury's recalls coconut and lime soup noodles Monday 20 February 2006 Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd has recalled its own-brand Malaysian Coconut and Lime Chicken Soup Noodles ready meal 400g, due to incorrect labelling information.

Local authority audits published Monday 20 February 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Bolton, Huntingdonshire and Trafford are now available online.

Surveys show pollutant levels in fish falling Friday 17 February 2006 Two Agency surveys of fish eaten in the UK are published today. They show that levels of pollutants (dioxins and PCBs) in most fish are continuing to fall.

Debating the future of food labelling Thursday 16 February 2006 Experts from 23 European Member States came together to debate the future of food labelling at a major conference.

Guidance on preparing infant formula Monday 13 February 2006 The Department of Health and Food Standards Agency have issued revised guidance on the preparation and storage of infant formula milk.

Labelling surveys published Monday 13 February 2006 The Agency has published two surveys that were carried out to investigate whether manufacturers are meeting the Agency's Country of Origin and Clear Labelling guidance, issued in 2002.

Kallo withdraws Soy Bites batch Monday 13 February 2006 Kallo Foods Ltd has withdrawn one batch of Kallo Socrispy Baked Salt and Vinegar Flavour Soy Bites 28g, due to cross contamination with dairy ingredients.

February Board update Friday 10 February 2006 The Agency held an Open Board Meeting in London on Thursday 9 February 2006. The meeting was chaired by FSA Chair Deirdre Hutton (left) and attended by 100 stakeholders and members of the public.

Update on Aldi Brooklea Yogurt recall Friday 10 February 2006 Aldi Stores Ltd has extended its product recall of Brooklea Thick and Creamy Yogurt to all batches of strawberry as a precautionary measure after finding that additional batches may be contaminated with glass.

Morrisons recalls cheese-topped garlic bread Friday 10 February 2006 Supermarket chain Wm Morrison has recalled all batches of its own-brand Frozen 6 Garlic Bread Slices Topped with Cheese 200g after it was discovered that some may contain small pieces of plastic.

Iceland recalls Cheese & Garlic Slices Friday 10 February 2006 Supermarket chain Iceland has recalled all batches of its own brand frozen 6 Cheese and Garlic Slices after it was discovered that some of them may contain small pieces of plastic.

Latest FSA News published and online Thursday 9 February 2006 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency's external newsletter, has been published and is available online.

Local authority audits published Wednesday 8 February 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Canterbury, Kirklees, South Tyneside and Wyre are now available online.

MDH Sambar Masala withdrawn Monday 6 February 2006 TRS Wholesale Co Ltd has undertaken a product withdrawal of MDH Sambar Masala, due to its contamination with Sudan I.

Stakeholder forum meets in Edinburgh Monday 6 February 2006 The Food Standards Agency Scotland stakeholder forum takes place on 21 February 2006 at the Apex City Hotel, 61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, from 10.30am-1pm.

Aldi recalls Brooklea yogurt Monday 6 February 2006 Aldi Stores Ltd has recalled a batch of Brooklea Thick and Creamy Yogurt 150g due to glass contamination.

Agency appoints two new Board members Monday 6 February 2006 Professor William Reilly (left) has been appointed as the Agency's new Board member for Scotland and Alan Gardner as the new member for Wales.

Active brand kebab powder warning Friday 3 February 2006 A spicy powder has been found to be contaminated with excess levels of aflatoxins. The Food Standards Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action.

Farley's rusks withdrawn Thursday 2 February 2006 Farley's has withdrawn from sale a consignment of Farley's rusks that have been found to contain low levels of a pesticide, chlorpropham.

Virtual Sam goes live Wednesday 1 February 2006 Check out Virtual Sam, the animated version of the Food Standards Agency's online nutrition expert Sam Montel. You can even download her short movie clips as a podcast.

Update on applying EU feed and food controls Wednesday 1 February 2006 An update on the progress since December 2005 on the measures being taken to apply EU Regulation 882/2004 on official controls in the UK has been published by the Agency.

Irradiated food supplements enforcement exercise published Wednesday 1 February 2006 In a food supplement enforcement exercise carried out by the Agency with local authorities, half the supplements looked at were either irradiated or had an irradiated ingredient.

Cutting through red tape Tuesday 31 January 2006 The Food Standards Agency has today published its first draft simplification plan, in a bid to streamline food regulations and so make them easier to comply with.

Labelling Conference 2006 Monday 30 January 2006 The Netherlands and UK are holding a food labelling conference on 15-16 February 2006 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Cauldron recalls tofu Friday 27 January 2006 Cauldron Foods Ltd has recalled one batch of its own-brand Organic Original Tofu 250g due to insufficient heat treatment, which could result in microbiological contamination.

Survey of maize samples for Bt10 Thursday 26 January 2006 The Agency today published the results of tests on samples of imported maize for the presence of the unauthorised genetically modified (GM) Bt10. No samples were found to contain Bt10.

Local authority audits published Thursday 26 January 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Bromley, Durham and Shropshire are now available online.

Updated guidance for enforcement authorities on the EU Official Feed and Food Controls Regulation Wednesday 25 January 2006 The Food Standards Agency has updated the Q&A notes for enforcement authorities on the feed and food elements of the EU Regulation on official controls (882/2004).

Warburtons recalls All in One Riddlers Wednesday 25 January 2006 Warburtons Ltd has recalled certain batches of its own brand All in One Riddlers - Cheese and Cheese and Ham flavours due to the possible presence of pieces of white plastic.

Health, Wealth and Happiness Tuesday 24 January 2006 'Health, Wealth and Happiness' is the theme of a forthcoming Trading Standards Wales conference taking place in Cardiff on 2/3 March.

Egg hygiene inspection and monitoring Monday 23 January 2006 Annual review (2005-2006) of the operation of the service level agreement between the Food Standards Agency Scotland and the Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department.

Second-joint chicken wings incident Friday 20 January 2006 Boxes of frozen second-joint chicken wings bearing a suspect illicit product description label and/or broken or damaged health marks have been found.

Local authority audit published Friday 20 January 2006 The Agency's local authority audit report Argyll and Bute is now available online.

Allotment survey published Thursday 19 January 2006 A survey of a selection of metals and arsenic in fruit and vegetables grown in allotments has found that they present no risk to consumers' health.

Noni product accepted Thursday 19 January 2006 The Agency has decided that Hawaiian Noni LLC's noni juice meets the criteria for being sold in the EU.

Ferrosan withdraws irradiated food supplement Thursday 19 January 2006 Ferrosan Ltd has withdrawn two batch codes of Imedeen Prime Renewal food supplements due to the undeclared presence of irradiated white tea extract.

Waitrose recalls ready meal Wednesday 18 January 2006 Waitrose has recalled certain batches of its own-brand Perfectly Balanced Beef Hot Pot due to the possible presence of small metal pieces thought to come from a metal clip.

Labelling terms survey published Thursday 12 January 2006 The Agency has published a study investigating consumer understanding of widely-used marketing terms such as 'traditional' and 'home made'.

Bernard Matthews sliced turkey withdrawn Thursday 12 January 2006 Bernard Matthews Foods Ltd has withdrawn its own-brand Premium Sliced Honey Roast Turkey 100g because it has been labelled with an incorrect 'use-by' date.

Revised guidance for food businesses Wednesday 11 January 2006 The Agency is issuing revised guidance for the Regulation on Microbiological Criteria for Foodstuffs, which applies from 11 January 2006.

Join the ACMSF Tuesday 10 January 2006 Three neww specialist members are needed for the independent Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Foods (ACMSF).

Marca Pina soy sauce withdrawn Tuesday 10 January 2006 Peterborough-based Prompt Thai 2000 has withdrawn two batches of Marca Pina soy sauce from sale.

Local authority audits published Tuesday 10 January 2006 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Derby, Guildford, Oswestry, Stoke on Trent, Tower Hamlets and Warwickshire are now available online.

FSA Wales response to E.coli report Friday 6 January 2006 The Food Standards Agency welcomes the Chief Medical Officer's (CMO) report into last year's E.coli outbreak.

MHS Official Controls Manual published Friday 6 January 2006 The Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) Manual for Official Controls is now available online. It provides details of the tasks, responsibilities and duties MHS staff and veterinary contractors undertake in licensed establishments.

Noni juice application Thursday 5 January 2006 A company has applied to have its noni juice products approved for sale on the grounds that it is 'substantially equivalent' to other products that have already been authorised.

Meat and agriculture matters Wednesday 4 January 2006 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee is holding an open meeting on meat and agricultural matters in Aberystwyth on Wednesday 18 January 2006.

Research seminar on food authenticity Tuesday 3 January 2006 The Agency is hosting a seminar in London on 23 February 2006 to disseminate the results of various food authenticity research projects.

News Centre

Most recent news stories

Search news stories by date

Tell a Friend

Printer friendly

Text only

Contact us

Get alerts

FSA online