[ARCHIVED CONTENT] Food Standards Agency

The Health Store recalls dried apricots Wednesday 31 December 2008 The Health Store is recalling a batch of its own-brand Whole, Dried Apricots due to incorrect allergen information. The batch contains sulphites, which are not declared on the label and make this batch of apricots a potential health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an allergy alert.

Northern Ireland Strategic Committee on Food Surveillance Sampling: 2007 Report Monday 29 December 2008 The Northern Ireland Strategic Committee on Food Surveillance is an expert group, established in 2007 to independently evaluate statistical data obtained from the UK Food Standards Agency's Food Surveillance System (FSS (UK)) Database on sampling activities in Northern Ireland.

Risky remnants? What to do with your leftover turkey Tuesday 23 December 2008 Turkey curry, turkey sandwiches or turkey curry? Are you wondering what to do with your leftover turkey this Christmas? The Agency has launched a new 'viral' marketing campaign, which raises awareness to the dangers of eating week-old turkey and gives tips to protect people in the UK from festive food poisoning.

Avoid festive fare food poisoning Tuesday 23 December 2008 Many people will be indulging in festive fare over the coming days and, with this in mind, the Agency would like to remind particular groups of people about the importance of avoiding certain foods in order to minimise the risk of food poisoning, especially listeriosis.

Open Meeting of Welsh Food Advisory Committee: 13 January 2009 Monday 22 December 2008 As part of its regular open sessions, the Welsh Food Advisory Committee (WFAC) of Food Standards Agency Wales is holding an open meeting in Cardiff on Tuesday 13 January 2009 from 9.15am to 1pm.

Update on beef from Northern Ireland Monday 22 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency is today advising consumers not to be concerned about eating beef from Northern Ireland. Dioxin results from three Northern Irish herds affected by contaminated feed have been received, they exceed permitted limits but the risk to public health remains very low. Any cattle and beef that have been withheld since Tuesday 9 December will not enter the food chain.

Bogus letter warning Friday 19 December 2008 The Agency is warning food business operators about bogus letters claiming to be from the Food Standards Agency demanding payment for supposed breaches of food safety regulations. The one letter that has been drawn to the Agency’s attention demands payment of £1,000.

Aytac Halal Foods recalls sliced turkey salami Friday 19 December 2008 Aytac Halal Foods Ltd has recalled some of its own-brand pre-packed sliced turkey salami, because the product is contaminated with salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Informing the FSA about brands not containing certain food colours Friday 19 December 2008 Following the agreement of Ministers to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) recommended voluntary ban on certain food colours, the Agency is to publish information on brands and companies that have removed these colours from their products.

Local authority update on scores on the doors Friday 19 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today written to local authorities letting them know the outcome of the FSA Board open meeting held on 10 December where recommendations for a UK-wide 'scores on the doors' scheme were considered.

Statement on Irish beef Thursday 18 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency is today reassuring consumers about eating Irish beef following the Republic of Ireland’s withdrawal of beef from cattle exposed to feed contaminated with dioxins.

Chair of the Food Standards Agency to step down next year Thursday 18 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced that Dame Deirdre Hutton will step down as Chair of its Board at the end of her four-year term next July.

Imperial Snack Foods recall Brazil nuts Thursday 18 December 2008 Imperial Snack Foods has recalled one batch of its own-brand Brazil nuts, because the product is contaminated with salmonella. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Consultation on meat hygiene charging gets underway Thursday 18 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency today launched a 14-week consultation on proposals to reform the charging system for official controls, known as inspections, in meat businesses in the UK. If adopted, the new charging regime will restructure the present system.

JLM Global Foods recalls Snack 'N' Time mixed nuts Thursday 18 December 2008 JLM Global Foods Ltd has recalled one batch of its own-brand Snack ‘N’ Time Mixed Nuts, due to the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

National Codex Consultative Committee meeting prior to the Codex Committee on Fats and Oil Thursday 18 December 2008 The National Codex Consultative Committee (NCCC) is inviting its members to a meeting prior to the 21st session of the Codex Committee on Fats and Oil (CCFO). The NCCC meeting has been rescheduled and will now be held at 10am on Friday 23 January 2009 at the Food Standards Agency headquarters in London.

Joint human and animal health TSE research strategy published Thursday 18 December 2008 In 2005, the UK TSE Research and Development Joint Funders’ Co-ordination Group comprising the Food Standards Agency, Department of Health, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and Medical Research Council published their first joint human and animal health TSE research strategy.

Extension of controls for melamine Wednesday 17 December 2008 The European Commission has decided to extend the ban on importing certain products from China because of the risk of melamine contamination. Melamine is an industrial chemical that should not be present in food.

Agency seeks views on European training programme Tuesday 16 December 2008 The Agency, together with Defra and the devolved agriculture/rural affairs departments, is seeking views on priorities for the training programme for 2009/10 under the European Commission's 'Better Training for Safer Food' strategy.

Irish pork update Monday 15 December 2008 The Agency has issued a second updated Food Alert for Action on the incident concerning the Republic of Ireland recall of all pork and pork products produced from pigs slaughtered in the Republic of Ireland between 1 September 2008 and 7 December 2008, because of contamination of animal feed with dioxins.

The Food Standards Agency wishes you a happy and healthy Christmas Monday 15 December 2008 We're giving you a free seasonal screensaver e-card complete with some timely reminders.

Christmas lunch unwrapped Monday 15 December 2008 The Agency has issued its top tips for a safer Christmas lunch, to help you enjoy a healthier festive season.

Scottish bottled water legislation seminar for industry and local authorities Monday 15 December 2008 As part of the continuing commitment to engage with Scottish producers and Scottish local authorities to support practical understanding of food law, the Food Standards Agency Scotland will be hosting a training seminar on bottled water legislation on 27 January 2009 at the Dewars Centre in Perth.

ACAF open meeting 3 December 2008 Friday 12 December 2008 The Advisory Committee On Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held an open meeting in London, Aviation House on 3 December 2008.

FSA writes to ministers on BSE testing Friday 12 December 2008 Following the FSA Board meeting on 10 December, FSA Chair Dame Deirdre Hutton has advised Health Ministers across the UK that the FSA Board agreed to support an increase, from 30 to 48 months, the age at which cattle slaughtered for human consumption are tested for BSE.

Irish pork back on the shelves Thursday 11 December 2008 Measures are now in place to restore supplies of Irish pork and bacon to consumers. Pork from animals reared, slaughtered and processed in Northern Ireland remain unaffected by this incident. In the UK, shops, manufacturers and caterers that can trace the origin of any pork directly to a farm that is unaffected by contaminated feed are able to continue selling their products.

FSA Board meeting video online Thursday 11 December 2008 The video and podcast of yesterday's open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included discussion of 'scores on the doors', BSE testing and the Advisory Committee on Consumer Engagement. The Board also discussed revised advice on peanut allergy.

Sainsbury's withdraws some Freefrom brand products Thursday 11 December 2008 Sainsbury's has withdrawn its own brand Freefrom Chipolatas, Chicken Steaks, Chicken Nuggets and Beef Burgers because the products contain milk which has not been mentioned on the label. The product is, therefore, a possible risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of milk or milk constituents.

Latest FSA News published and online Thursday 11 December 2008 FSA News, the Agency's magazine for stakeholders, this month warns people of the dangers of food poisoning at Christmas and highlights the Committee on Toxicity's review of peanut allergy advice.

Six tier scores on the doors approved Wednesday 10 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency Board has today approved a new six-tier 'scores on the doors' scheme for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which will give consumers clear information about hygiene standards in food businesses. Scotland will continue with a two-tier pass or improvement required system.

FSA Board advise on BSE testing age Wednesday 10 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency today agreed to support a move to increase, from 30 months to 48 months, the age at which cattle slaughtered for human consumption are BSE tested. This decision was reached after the Board received assurances about the effectiveness of current and future BSE surveillance.

Agency's Board recommends peanut advice is revised Wednesday 10 December 2008 The FSA Board will recommend to Ministers that Government advice on avoiding peanuts during pregnancy, breastfeeding and early life, where there is a family history of allergy, is revised in light of new evidence.

EFSA gives regular pork eaters the all clear (updated) Wednesday 10 December 2008 Advice from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on pork contaminated with dioxins published today stresses that products containing pork, such as sausages and pizza, can still be eaten, while regular consumers of Irish pork should not worry about their health as a result of this incident.

Agency announces savings from better regulation Wednesday 10 December 2008 Since 2005 annual savings of £379 million have been delivered to businesses, the public sector and third sector by the Food Standards Agency. Details are in the Agency’s 2008/09 Simplification Report and Plan, published today. The savings include £44 million achieved through reductions in administrative burdens.

FSA's Tim Smith appointed to new food advisory group Wednesday 10 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) today welcomed Defra Secretary of State Hilary Benn's announcement on members of the new Council of Food Policy Advisors. Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the FSA, is among those who have been appointed to serve on the Council.

Update on Irish beef Tuesday 9 December 2008 Ireland’s Food Safety Authority (FSAI) has confirmed that feed contaminated with dioxins has been fed to some cattle in Ireland. FSAI has evaluated samples taken from affected herds and is satisfied that these samples raise no public health concern.

Recall of Irish pork Tuesday 9 December 2008 The FSA has today published a list of the meat processors in the Republic of Ireland affected by the pork incident and also meat companies in England that have received pork products from these companies. The risk to consumer health from these pork products remains very low, as the Chief Scientist highlights in his recent blog (see link below).

FSA reiterates advice on Irish pork: update Monday 8 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is today reiterating its advice on Irish pork products as a result of ongoing investigations.

Statement on Irish pork Sunday 7 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency is today advising consumers not to eat pork or pork products, such as sausages, bacon, salami and ham, which are labelled as being from the Irish Republic or Northern Ireland, while it continues to investigate whether any products contaminated with dioxins have been distributed in the UK.

Recall of Sainsbury's wafer thin chicken Friday 5 December 2008 Supermarket chain Sainsbury's has issued a recall today of their own-brand cooked wafer thin chicken (70g) with date codes up to and including 22 December. This is a precautionary measure by Sainsbury's, as traces of milk protein have been found in a sample of the product, which is not mentioned on the packaging. If you have a milk allergy, please do not eat this product.

Who's meeting who? Thursday 4 December 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and November details are available on line. This forms part of our commitment to openness

Shaws of Huddersfield withdraws more chutney Thursday 4 December 2008 Shaws of Huddersfield has withdrawn more chutneys containing apricots because they contain sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label. The products are therefore, a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphur dioxide. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert advising anyone with a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide not to eat these products.

'Home grown' stars throw weight behind healthy eating calendar Thursday 4 December 2008 Local celebrities including TV star Christine Bleakley are helping to spice up the 2009 eatwell calendar. Produced by the Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) the calendar is packed full of recipes from famous faces, as well as budget busting tips to make food shopping in 2009 easier on the bank balances of local consumers.

Fish survey results Thursday 4 December 2008 A Food Standards Agency (FSA) snapshot survey has found that 90% of restaurants, cafes and takeaways describe their fish products correctly.

Walkers recalls some crisps Thursday 4 December 2008 Walkers has recalled some of its crisps, because of the possible presence of pieces of yellow rubber in the products. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Annual radioactivity report published Wednesday 3 December 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today published the report of a survey that shows levels of radioactivity in food remain safe and below the European Union (EU) legal limit.

Tesco recalls Continental Plain Chocolate Tuesday 2 December 2008 Tesco has recalled certain batches of its Continental Plain Chocolate 74% Cocoa because the product contains milk protein which was not mentioned on the label. This product is therefore, a possible risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of milk or milk constituents.

Richard Woodhall recalls Cumbrian Pancetta Friday 28 November 2008 Richard Woodhall Ltd has recalled some Cumbrian Pancetta (Traditional Dry Cured) due to the detection of a low level of Listeria monocytogenes. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Morrisons withdraws Miramonte Ridge Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc wines Friday 28 November 2008 Morrisons has withdrawn the Miramonte Ridge brand of Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc wines because they contain sulphites which are not mentioned on the label. This product is, therefore, a possible risk for people with a sensitivity to sulphites.

Campina UK recalls Yazoo milkshakes Friday 28 November 2008 Campina UK has recalled Yazoo brand Banana, Strawberry and Chocolate flavour milkshakes because the lids are not sealing properly. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Agency launches tools for schools Thursday 27 November 2008 The Agency has launched two new interactive teaching tools as part of its programme to ‘help young people to choose, cook and eat safe, healthy food’.

The Co-operative Food recalls mild chilli powder Thursday 27 November 2008 The Co-operative Food has recalled all of their own-brand Mild Chilli Powder because of the presence of Salmonella Thompson. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Constellation Europe recalls two Stowells wines Thursday 27 November 2008 Constellation Europe has recalled two Stowells brand Italian Sparkling Wines because of reports of the bottles breaking. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Local authority audit published Thursday 27 November 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for Tandridge District Council is now available online.

Prime Brand recalls whole straw mushrooms due to blown cans Wednesday 26 November 2008 Prime Brand has recalled a batch of canned Prime Brand Whole Straw Mushrooms due to the presence of anaerobic spore forming bacteria that have led to blown cans. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Bottled water hygiene guide published Wednesday 26 November 2008 A new guide to good hygiene practice has been published for bottled water companies. It is the fifth of a series of guides to be published for the food industry.

Shaws of Huddersfield withdraws chutney Wednesday 26 November 2008 Shaws of Huddersfield has withdrawn some Apricot and Ginger Chutney (300g), because it contains sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label. The product is a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphur dioxide. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert advising anyone with a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide not to eat this product.

Industrial action called off Wednesday 26 November 2008 Following further constructive negotiations yesterday between the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) and UNISON, next week's proposed industrial action by UNISON has been called off.

Who's meeting who Tuesday 25 November 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and September details are available on line. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

Scientific officer vacancies Tuesday 25 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency is seeking to fill six scientific officer positions in Central London through open competition. Working to protect the health of the public and providing independent advice to consumers on food-related issues, the Agency impacts on everyone in the UK.

Who's meeting who? Tuesday 25 November 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and October details are available on line. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

TK Maxx and Homesense recall nougat Tuesday 25 November 2008 TK Maxx and Homesense are both recalling all varieties of Properzi and Valentino Nougat as a precaution following two reports that insects have been found in the nougat. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Who's meeting who? Monday 24 November 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and August details are now available on line. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

Who's meeting who? Monday 24 November 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a a month by month basis and July 2008 details are now available online.

Tesco recalls strawberry pencil sweets due to possible metal contamination Monday 24 November 2008 Tesco has recalled a batch of its own-brand Strawberry Pencils (75g) confectionary product, because of a small piece of metal being found in one packet of the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Agency goes for goal on healthy eating Monday 24 November 2008 The Agency has this month kicked off exciting projects with two major Premiership football clubs, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. Something to Chew On and What's Cooking? are part of our drive to get young people to choose, cook and eat safe healthy food.

Survey on preservative levels in soft drinks Monday 24 November 2008 Levels of the preservatives benzoate and sorbate in soft drinks are within legal limits, according to a new survey by the Food Standards Agency.

Meat Hygiene Service statement Friday 21 November 2008 The Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) responded today, Friday 21 November, to the announcement that UNISON's members have voted for industrial action by stating that the MHS believes that through further talks the two parties can reach an agreement.

High street restaurants sign up to healthy eating Thursday 20 November 2008 Six leading high street restaurant chains – Burger King, KFC, McDonald's, Nando's, Subway and Wimpy – have today announced a commitment to make changes in their restaurants, which support Agency activity to help people eat more healthily outside the home.

Local authority audit published Wednesday 19 November 2008 The Agency’s local authority audit report for North Somerset is now available online.

Waitrose recalls bean mix Wednesday 19 November 2008 Waitrose has recalled its Wholesome 10 Bean Mix, 500g because it contains gluten and barley which is not mentioned on the label. This product is therefore a possible risk for people who have a gluten intolerance or those that are sensitive to barley.

Agency publishes views on scores on the doors legal issues Tuesday 18 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today published its views on a number of legal questions around the establishment of a UK-wide 'scores on the doors' scheme. Scores on the doors schemes provide consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses.

Fray Bentos recalls minced beef and onion pies Monday 17 November 2008 Fray Bentos has recalled some of its own brand Minced Beef & Onion Pie (425g), because it may contain pieces of metal. The affected batch has only been supplied to Iceland stores. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Quaker Oats recalls some oats Monday 17 November 2008 Quaker Oats has recalled some of their own brand Quaker Oats Original (1.5kg carton) and Quaker 'Jumbo' Rolled Oats (1kg carton) because of the possible presence of a beetle known as the confused flour beetle (Tribolium confusum) in the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Latest FSA News published and online Friday 14 November 2008 This month, FSA News, the Agency’s magazine for stakeholders, highlights new advice for pregnant women to reduce their caffeine intake.

Netto recalls Starberg Shandy due to faulty bottles Friday 14 November 2008 Netto has recalled some Starberg Shandy because there is a fault to the neck of the bottle which means there is a risk of it breaking. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Food fraud hotline launched Friday 14 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency has set up a special food fraud hotline to gather information on known or suspected fraudulent activity in the sale or marketing of food.

Agency creates new environmental health role Friday 14 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency has appointed Sarah Appleby as Head of Profession: Environmental Health. The creation of this new role acknowledges the importance of environmental health work in the Agency and the value that it brings to the organisation.

Update on food colours Thursday 13 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency Chief Executive, Tim Smith, has written to stakeholders giving an update on the UK position on six artificial food colours and their effect on children's behaviour. Government Ministers have now agreed with the Agency proposal for a voluntary ban on these colours.

Bottled water legislation seminar Thursday 13 November 2008 As part of continuing commitment to engage with producers and local authorities to support practical understanding of food law, the Food Standards Agency will be hosting its first seminar on bottled water legislation on 15 December at Aviation House, London.

Tesco withdraws spotted dick sponge puddings Thursday 13 November 2008 Tesco has withdrawn some spotted dick sponge puddings because jam sponge puddings, containing egg, have been packed in the spotted dick packaging and egg is not mentioned on the label. This product is therefore a possible risk for people who are allergic or intolerant to egg.

Dairy Crest recalls Country Life Spreadable Thursday 13 November 2008 Dairy Crest has recalled some Country Life Spreadable because the products may contain pieces of white rubber. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Seymours of Norfolk recalls olive oil products Wednesday 12 November 2008 Seymours of Norfolk has recalled all of its infused olive oil products, because of the possible risk of botulism. The type of bacteria (called Clostridium botulinum) that can cause botulism, a severe type of food poisoning, has not been detected in the products. However, the products have not been made in a way that would prevent Clostridium botulinum from multiplying if it is present.

Scores on the doors update on consultation responses Monday 10 November 2008 From May to August this year, the Agency consulted on a proposal for a UK-wide 'scores on the doors’ scheme for providing consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses. The 414 responses received across the UK (approximately 52% from industry stakeholders, 45% from enforcement bodies and 4% from consumer organisations) are available from today in the Agency's library.

Country of origin labelling guidance published Thursday 6 November 2008 The Food Standards Agency has published revised guidance for industry and enforcement authorities on country of origin labelling, as part of its continuing commitment to improve food labelling for consumers.

New regulations for reduced alcohol wines Thursday 6 November 2008 The European Commission will now permit EU wines that use different experimental techniques to reduce the alcohol content to be marketed across Europe.

Public opinion revealed in latest tracking survey Thursday 6 November 2008 The Agency has published the results of its latest mini survey, which tracks changes in consumer attitudes and awareness of certain food-related issues and the Agency. The survey runs on a quarterly basis.

Asda recalls breaded haddock fillets Wednesday 5 November 2008 Asda has recalled some if its own-brand Frozen 4 Breaded 100% Haddock Fillets because battered haddock fillets have been packed in breaded haddock fillets packaging. The battered haddock fillets contain milk that is not mentioned on the breaded haddock fillets label, making the product a possible health risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of milk or milk constituents.

Join EFSA's scientific committee or panels Wednesday 5 November 2008 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is renewing the membership of its Scientific Committee and eight of its ten Scientific Panels. Applications are sought from highly qualified scientists from Europe and beyond, with expertise in a relevant scientific field.

Waitrose recalls minced beef and onion pie Tuesday 4 November 2008 Waitrose has recalled its own-brand Minced Beef and Onion Pie because it has been labelled with the wrong 'use by' date. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

All 'Samsono' meat products recalled Monday 3 November 2008 JSC 'Samsonas', from Kaunas in Lithuania, has now recalled all of their meat products labelled with 'Samsono' brand from the UK market on a precautionary basis, due to possible contamination with high levels of Listeria monocytogenes. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action that updates the previous alerts of 22 and 29 October.

Pregnant women advised to limit caffeine consumption Monday 3 November 2008 The Agency has today issued new advice on caffeine consumption during pregnancy. This follows the results of new FSA-funded research carried out by the Universities of Leeds and Leicester.

Codex committee seeks views on vegetable oils Friday 31 October 2008 The Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) is inviting comments on the proposed draft amendment to the standard for named vegetable oils for the inclusion of palm kernel olein and palm kernel stearin. The deadline for comments is Friday 28 November 2008.

Consultation on proposed changes to BSE testing Friday 31 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today launched a joint consultation with Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government on proposals to increase the minimum age at which cattle are tested for BSE. Separately, consultations have also been issued today by FSA Scotland with the Scottish Government and FSA Northern Ireland with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Northern Ireland.

Christmas and Halloween Chocolate Pop products withdrawn Thursday 30 October 2008 Lucky Dip (Nottingham) Ltd has withdrawn some batches of its own brand Christmas and Halloween Chocolate Pop products because they have been tested in the UK and found to be contaminated with melamine. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Lituanica UK recalls 'Samsono' ears and tongue roll Wednesday 29 October 2008 The Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Action about Ears and Tongue Roll from Lithuania, labelled with the 'Samsono' brand. This is a ready to eat pork product. Further investigations have revealed that the affected product has also been imported into the UK by Lituanica UK Ltd and distributed to 22 shops in England and one shop in Northern Ireland.

Allergy and intolerance research review report published Tuesday 28 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today published a report of the food allergy and intolerance programme review that took place in February 2008.

Tesco recalls Prepared Sausage Meals Friday 24 October 2008 Tesco has recalled some of its own brand Prepared Sausage Meals because they contain sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the products could be a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert advising anyone who is sensitive to sulphites not to eat these products.

Northern Ireland stakeholder conference Thursday 23 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) is holding their first stakeholder conference, 'Responding to a Changing World' on Monday 17 November in the Stormont Hotel, Belfast.

Open Meeting of Welsh Food Advisory Committee: 5 November 2008 Thursday 23 October 2008 Wednesday 5 November 9 am – 12.40 pm

New online incidents section and strategy published Thursday 23 October 2008 The Agency has published a new website section to bring together information and guidance on how to report, respond to and prevent a food or animal feed incident. The Agency's incident prevention strategy plan has also been published.

Food Safety Week 15–21 June 2009 Thursday 23 October 2008 Grubeye will be making a repeat appearance at next year's Food Safety Week on 15–21 June. A range of events will be taking place across the UK in schools, community groups and local councils, to highlight the importance of food safety and hygiene in the home.

Ready to eat 'Samsono' Ears and Tongue Roll recalled Wednesday 22 October 2008 The Agency has today issued a food alert about Ears and Tongue Roll from Lithuania, labelled with the Samsono brand. This is a ready to eat pork product mainly sold in specialist food shops in England. Samples have been found to contain levels of listeria that could be dangerous.

Melamine update: more novelty products withdrawn due to contamination Wednesday 22 October 2008 The Agency has today issued another food alert about novelty food products from China. Spencer and Fleetwood has withdrawn certain varieties of chocolate novelty products that have been tested in the UK and found to be contaminated with melamine.

Assets recovered from abattoir operator Tuesday 21 October 2008 A prosecution by the Food Standards Agency and the North East Regional Asset Recovery Team (RART) has resulted in a former abattoir manager, Ibrahim Moosa Yusuf, being ordered to pay £317,135.

Melamine update: novelty products withdrawn Friday 17 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today issued a food alert about novelty food products from China, including chocolate-flavoured 'willy spread', containing melamine.

Latest FSA News published and online Friday 17 October 2008 The October issue of FSA News, the Agency’s magazine for stakeholders, highlights the new checks on food containing milk or milk products imported from China.

Board meeting available online Thursday 16 October 2008 The video-on-demand and podcast of the 15 October 2008 open Board meeting are now available. The agenda includes Eating for Health, the Agency's draft Simplification Report and Plan 2008/09, regulatory budgets and the proposed increase in the age at which UK cattle are BSE tested.

FSA Board discusses proposals to reduce BSE testing Wednesday 15 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) Board today agreed to support a move to increase the age at which UK cattle are BSE tested from 30 months to 48 months, subject to a review of current and continued BSE surveillance.

Melamine update Wednesday 15 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today written to all UK ports and local authorities after the European Commission refined the measures it has put in place to test for melamine in food products from China.

Proposals to reduce BSE testing of cattle slaughtered for food Wednesday 15 October 2008 The Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) has been estimating the impact to human health of actioning proposals to reduce BSE testing of cattle slaughtered for food. This will be discussed at the FSA Board meeting today.

Workshop announced on joint code of practice audit Tuesday 14 October 2008 A workshop, to be scheduled for early 2009, will give stakeholders the chance to consider the results of an audit on the FSA and Defra’s compliance with the joint code of practice for research.

Local authority audits published Tuesday 14 October 2008 The Agency’s local authority audit reports for High Peak and Three Rivers are now available online.

Agency signs up to sustainable policies Friday 10 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has taken a major step forward in formalising its commitment to sustainable development.

Reappointment of five ACAF members Friday 10 October 2008 Dame Deirdre Hutton, Chair of the Food Standards Agency, today announced the re-appointment of five members of the Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF).

Agency invites feedback on BSE controls Friday 10 October 2008 The Agency would like to hear from stakeholders with a particular interest in BSE issues at a workshop on 21 November.

Open invitation to meeting on Agency’s use of scientific evidence Friday 10 October 2008 The General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) is issuing an open invitation to its second meeting, which will be held in London on 29 October.

Agency's latest research needs published Thursday 9 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency has announced its requirements for research and survey work and a programme adviser position.

Agency publishes report on Meat Hygiene Service Wednesday 8 October 2008 The Agency has today published a report on how the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) could be most effective in its work with abattoirs across Great Britain. The report was drafted by a working group comprising representatives from the Food Standards Agency, the MHS and the meat industry.

Morrisons recalls potato croquettes Wednesday 8 October 2008 Morrisons has recalled its own-brand Frozen Family Favourites Potato Croquettes (750g) because the product might contain pieces of soft blue plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Forest Products withdraws more apricot jam Wednesday 8 October 2008 The Agency has issued an updated Allergy Alert for the withdrawal by Forest Product UK Ltd of some apricot jams. Further products contain sulphur dioxide, a preservative used in the apricots. Sulphur dioxide is not mentioned on the packaging, which makes the products a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites.

Aldi recalls its own-brand Ashfield West Country Whole Chicken Monday 6 October 2008 Aldi has recalled its own-brand West Country Whole Chicken because it has been labelled with the wrong 'use by' date. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Views wanted on shiitake extract Monday 6 October 2008 A Danish company has applied to the Agency for approval to market its lentinan-rich extract from shiitake mushrooms as a novel food supplement and novel food ingredient.

Dalepak Foods recalls frozen spicy bean burgers Friday 3 October 2008 Dalepak Foods has recalled three varieties of frozen spicy bean burger due to the presence of lectin in under processed kidney beans. Lectin is a natural toxin present in uncooked kidney beans, which can cause stomach aches and vomiting.

White Rabbit sweets withdrawn due to melamine contamination Friday 3 October 2008 The Agency is alerting the public about certain batches of White Rabbit Creamy Candies from China which are on sale in the UK and have been found to contain melamine at levels of 11.25mg/kg, 152mg/kg and 80 mg/kg respectively.

Forest Products withdraws apricot jam Friday 3 October 2008 Forest Products UK Ltd has withdrawn some of its Cherry Tree Apricot Extra Jam (340g) and Westcountry Preserving Company Finest Apricot Extra Jam (340g) because they contain sulphur dioxide, which was used as a preservative in the apricots. Sulphur dioxide is not mentioned on the packaging; therefore, this product could be a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites.

Grampian Foods recalls batches of 'Grabits' Original Chicken on a Stick Friday 3 October 2008 Grampian Foods (Europe) Ltd has recalled certain batches of 'Grabits' Original Chicken on a Stick because there is a slight risk that products are raw or undercooked.

Koala biscuits withdrawn due to melamine contamination Wednesday 1 October 2008 The Food Standards Agency is today alerting the public about a brand of biscuits from China on sale in the UK that have been found to contain low levels of melamine (4.98 mg/kg).

New guide for wild game sellers Wednesday 1 October 2008 An updated version of the Agency's wild game guide has been published today. Targeting hunters who supply game that has not been plucked or skinned and those selling small quantities of wild game meat, it gives information on hygiene regulations and ways to make sure meat is safe to eat.

Aldi recalls four varieties of own-brand chilled meat pies Tuesday 30 September 2008 Aldi has recalled four varieties of its own-brand chilled meat pies because the products have incorrect use-by dates. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Update on independent evaluation of nutritional labelling Monday 29 September 2008 The Agency welcomes the publication today by an independent expert panel (Project Management Panel) of a paper on front-of-pack nutritional labelling. The paper details the work carried out to-date and the scientific basis for the next stage of the evaluation of this labelling in the UK.

Agency response to GM rice review Monday 29 September 2008 The Food Standards Agency Emergencies Group met on 23 June 2008 to discuss the review of the 2006 genetically modified (GM) rice incident. This incident involved US long grain rice being contaminated with an unauthorised genetically modified rice known as LLRICE601.

FSANI launches newsletter for NI stakeholders Monday 29 September 2008 The first edition of The Appetiser, a newsletter with news and events from the Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI), has been launched today.

Update on melamine Friday 26 September 2008 The European Commission has asked EU Member States to carry out checks on all products imported from China that contain over 15% milk.

Food incident prevention workshops Friday 26 September 2008 The Agency is holding two one-day workshops on food incident prevention and management. Targeted at small to medium sized food businesses in the West Midlands and South West England, both will focus on food incident prevention and identification, the management of incidents, and response.

What does science mean to you? Friday 26 September 2008 The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) is asking for feedback on their strategy for science and society in the UK.

Sainsbury’s recalls Seafood Selection Friday 26 September 2008 Sainsbury's has recalled some of its own-brand chilled Seafood Selection (250g), because the product is labelled with the incorrect 'use by' date. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Hammonds sauce sachets recalled Thursday 25 September 2008 Jenks Sales Brokers have recalled a variety of Hammonds sauce sachets because they contain allergens that are not declared on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people with an allergy to wheat, barley, soya, mustard and egg or who are intolerant to gluten. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Sainsbury's withdraws pumpkin and pepper soup Thursday 25 September 2008 Sainsbury's has withdrawn some packs of its SO Organic Pumpkin & Sweet Red Pepper Soup (600g) because the packs contain SO Organic Celeriac & Mushroom Soup. The presence of celeriac and celery in this soup is not mentioned on the packaging and therefore the product may be a possible risk to health for people allergic to celery.

Chinese milk advice Thursday 25 September 2008 Following concerns about milk and milk products contaminated with melamine in China, the Food Standards Agency can confirm that no baby milk manufactured in China can be sold legally in the UK. The Agency can also confirm that manufacturers of baby milks sold in the UK cannot use any milk or milk products imported from China.

Seafood ready meals contain nuts and ghee Tuesday 23 September 2008 The Food Standards Agency has been informed that two ready meal products sold in Asda stores and smaller retailers do not have the correct allergen labelling. Both products contain nuts and ghee (milk) but the product’s allergen information only mentions the presence of seafood.

Discussion of food allergy research Monday 22 September 2008 The Food Standards Agency is to investigate how external factors might impact on the reactions of people allergic to different foods. The Agency will hold an open meeting on 26 November in Cambridge to talk to potential researchers.

Agency launches AFAL 2009 Friday 19 September 2008 Anyone in Wales looking to improve the diet or eating habits of people in their communities could win an AFAL award to help them make a difference.

Local authority audits published Friday 19 September 2008 The Agency’s local authority audit reports for Boston, Chelmsford, Hart and Mid Sussex are now available online.

Views wanted from meat industry on charging Friday 19 September 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has written to the operators of all approved meat businesses to inform them of increases to some meat hygiene charge rates that will come into effect from January 2009 under current charging regulations.

Food allergy training goes online Thursday 18 September 2008 A new interactive food allergy training tool has been developed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). It highlights steps that should be followed to make sure good practice is used in the manufacture and production of food.

New members for COT Thursday 18 September 2008 FSA Chair Dame Deirdre Hutton and the Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson, have agreed that Dr Anna Hansell and Dr Clifford Elcombe be appointed to the COT with effect from 1 September 2008 for a period of three years.

Latest FSA News published and online Thursday 18 September 2008 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency's magazine for stakeholders, highlights the Agency's participation in the BA Festival and the launch of its Chief Scientist's second annual report.

Board meeting available online Thursday 18 September 2008 The video-on-demand and podcast of yesterday's open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included discussion of the approval of meat plants, analysis of the challenges for implementing the FSA's position on sustainability, briefing on BSE and a six-monthly report from the Chair of the MHS Board.

Low levels of listeria in smoked fish Tuesday 16 September 2008 The food poisoning bug listeria is rarely found above legal limits in smoked fish on sale in UK shops, according to a new survey published by the Food Standards Agency today.

Caterers making progress on healthy eating Tuesday 16 September 2008 The Agency welcomes progress made by caterers Aramark, BaxterStorey, Compass, Elior, Sodexo, and suppliers Brakes and 3663, following their commitment to help customers make healthier choices when eating at work.

Grolsch lager recalled from Morrisons Saturday 13 September 2008 Coors Brewers Ltd have recalled a batch of Grolsch premium lager in bottles from Morrisons stores.

Fraud database leads to vodka raid Friday 12 September 2008 Intelligence gathered through the Food Standards Agency's national food fraud database has led police, customs and trading standards and environmental health officers to raid four premises in the London Borough of Haringey and seize hundreds of bottles of potentially dangerous counterfeit vodka.

Science festival video online Friday 12 September 2008 Our Chief Scientist's webcast from the BA Festival of Science is now online as a video on demand.

Research reveals shoppers' priorities Friday 12 September 2008 Research findings published today show that shoppers are more likely to consider cost, quality and healthiness over environmental factors when buying their food and groceries. But 53% of consumers said that they did consider at least one environmental issue when food shopping.

Shellfish classification agreed Friday 12 September 2008 The Agency has agreed the 2008-09 classification areas for shellfish production in England and Wales.

Online access to Agency science Thursday 11 September 2008 The Agency has today launched a new online store for all the scientific research that it funds.

Grants of a million pounds to help improve food safety Thursday 11 September 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has awarded grants of nearly a million pounds to help food caterers and food retailers improve food safety. This is the third year that the FSA has given these grants as part of its ongoing commitment to helping food businesses comply with EU hygiene regulations.

Sainsbury’s recalls Italian mushroom risotto Thursday 11 September 2008 Sainsbury’s has recalled its own brand Italian mushroom risotto because the sauce contains wheat gluten and chicken which are not mentioned on the ingredients list. This makes the product a possible health risk for people with an allergy to wheat or who are gluten intolerant. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Aldi recalls Harvest Morn Luxury Fruit Muesli Thursday 11 September 2008 Aldi is recalling all batches of its own brand Harvest Morn Luxury Fruit Muesli because it contains sulphites, which are not on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Chief scientist's annual report launched Thursday 11 September 2008 Agency Chief Scientist Andrew Wadge launched his annual report on the Agency's science and research programme this afternoon at the BA Festival of Science in Liverpool.

Sainsbury's recalls steak and ale pie Thursday 11 September 2008 Sainsbury’s has recalled some of its Taste the Difference Steak and Ale Pie (250g), because the product contains celery, which is not mentioned on the ingredients list. This makes this product a possible health risk for people with an allergy to celery. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Acrylamide survey published Wednesday 10 September 2008 The Agency today published the results of a new study looking at the levels of acrylamide, and other chemicals produced as a result of food processing, in a range of UK food products.

Veterinary Residues Committee open meeting Tuesday 9 September 2008 The Veterinary Residues Committee (VRC) is inviting applications for tickets to attend its next meeting this autumn.The open meeting will be on Wednesday 12 November at the Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre, Clydebank, near Glasgow.

Two new members for Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee Monday 8 September 2008 Maureen Edmondson, Chair of the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee (NIFAC), and Gerry McCurdy, new Director at the Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland, have welcomed two new members to the committee. Dorothy Black and David Mark were introduced at the committee’s first meeting after the summer break on 3 September.

Veterinary residues annual report published Monday 8 September 2008 The Veterinary Residues Committee (VRC) 2007 Annual Report on the surveillance of veterinary residues in food in the UK is now available online. The report details the checks that have been done for a range of residues of veterinary medicines in food.

Sainsbury's recalls batch of own-brand Strawberry Pencils Friday 5 September 2008 Sainsbury's has recalled a batch of its own-brand confectionery product Strawberry Pencils, because pieces of metal have been found in it.

FSA appoints new veterinary director Tuesday 2 September 2008 Liz Redmond has been appointed as the Agency's new Veterinary Director. She will join the Agency in December from her current post as Director of Animal Health and Welfare Policy at the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) in Northern Ireland.

Countdown to science festival Monday 1 September 2008 The countdown to the BA science festival has begun and tickets are being snapped up for the chance to find out all you ever wanted to know about food, as the Agency takes part in the festival for the first time. As well as attending the event, you can also join in through our live webcast of our session on Dispelling the Myths about science and food.

Agency warning about drinking Zam Zam water Monday 1 September 2008 As Muslims observe Ramadan, the Agency is reminding consumers to avoid drinking Zam Zam water of uncertain origin, as it may contain high levels of arsenic.

Waitrose recalls pickled shallots Friday 29 August 2008 Waitrose has recalled some of its Pickled Shallots (454g), because pieces of glass have been found in the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Open meeting of Welsh Food Advisory Committee Tuesday 26 August 2008 The next meeting of the new Welsh Food Advisory Comitteee will be at FSA Wales, Southgate House, Wood Street, Cardiff on 10 September.

Counterfeit SPAR Imperial Vodka Friday 22 August 2008 The Food Standards Agency has been informed by the Northumbria Police Service that they are investigating the distribution of counterfeit SPAR Imperial Vodka.

Food safety advice for people affected by flooding Friday 22 August 2008 The Agency has issued food safety advice for people who have been affected by the recent flooding.

Star Foods recalls chicken and mackerel Friday 22 August 2008 Star Foods has recalled its own brand of herbed/spiced chicken, chicken roll/chicken breast, smoked mackerel and peppered mackerel, because an incorrect 'use by' date appears on the product packaging.

500 reasons to celebrate the Eat Safe award Friday 22 August 2008 The ‘Eat Safe’ award scheme is celebrating success in Northern Ireland, with the number of eateries awarded the Eat Safe logo reaching a landmark 500. From hotels to residential homes and primary schools to pizzerias there are a growing number of diverse kitchens entitled to display the logo.

Food contact materials workshop Friday 22 August 2008 The Food Standards Agency is holding a one-day workshop on 12 November for enforcement authorities and businesses associated with food contact materials and articles. They will discuss draft guidelines on declarations of compliance.

Code of practice for Northern Ireland updated Thursday 21 August 2008 The Food Law Code of Practice for Northern Ireland has been updated. The new version of the code is now available.

Eat Natural recalls cereal Thursday 21 August 2008 Eat Natural has recalled some of its Crunchy Toastcrumbs Oats Honey and Coconut cereal (450g), because the product contains hazelnuts, which are not mentioned on the label, resulting in incorrect allergen information. This means the product is a possible health risk for individuals with an allergy to hazelnuts.

Co-op withdraws butter flapjacks Thursday 21 August 2008 The Co-op has withdrawn some of its 5 Butter Flapjack Squares because some Co-op Fairtrade Chocolate Brownies have been packed in 5 Butter Flapjack Squares packaging. The chocolate brownies contain egg, soya and wheat, which are not mentioned on the flapjack packaging. This means the product is a health risk to individuals with allergies to soya, egg and wheat or an intolerance to gluten.

Agency celebrates science Wednesday 20 August 2008 Come and see the Agency in action at one of Europe’s largest science events, the BA Festival, next month in Liverpool. This will be the first time the Agency has been involved in this event and we will be both taking part in expert panel debates and running our own event to highlight our scientific work.

Waitrose recalls Salmon Tagliatelle Tuesday 19 August 2008 Waitrose has recalled some of its own-brand Deliciously Different Salmon Tagliatelle with Petits Pois, Asparagus and Fresh Spinach (355g) because the product contains prawns that are not mentioned on the ingredient list. This means the product is a possible health risk for people with an allergy to shellfish.

Morrisons withdraws breaded ham Monday 18 August 2008 Morrisons has withdrawn its own-brand The Best Wiltshire Breaded Ham (125g) because the product contains breadcrumbs, which contain wheat and gluten that are not mentioned on the label. This means this product is a possible health risk for individuals allergic or intolerant to wheat or intolerant to gluten.

Local authority audits published Monday 18 August 2008 The Agency’s local authority audit reports for Ashford, Bromsgrove, Chorley, East Renfrewshire and Scarborough are now available online.

Update on salmonella outbreak Friday 15 August 2008 Following the outbreak of Salmonella Agona in Ireland and the UK, Dawn Farm Foods based in the Republic of Ireland, has withdrawn cooked bacon as a precautionary measure because of the possible presence of salmonella. The cooked bacon supplied by Dawn Farm Foods was used by the Kerry Group in the manufacture of three own-brand sandwich fillers.

Third update on salmonella outbreak Friday 15 August 2008 The Agency has today confirmed that products implicated in the recent outbreak of Salmonella Agona and distributed to the UK from Ireland have been withdrawn from sale.

Unilever UK recalls Bovril Beef Extract Thursday 14 August 2008 Unilever UK has recalled some Bovril Beef Extract because of the presence of salmonella. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Walkers withdraws some crisps multipacks Tuesday 12 August 2008 Walkers Snack Foods Ltd has withdrawn a limited number of Walkers crisps multipacks across two date codes, due to the possible presence of small pieces of black rubber within the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Netto withdraws chicken breast fillet Monday 11 August 2008 Netto Foodstores Ltd has withdrawn a batch of its own brand Fresh Chicken Breast Fillets due to larvae contamination. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Chocolate covered raisins withdrawal update Monday 11 August 2008 R. M. Curtis Ltd has withdrawn a batch of its Snacking Essentials Milk Chocolate Covered Raisins (100g), because they may have been mixed with milk chocolate covered peanut. Peanuts are not mentioned on the label, which means the product is a possible health risk for individuals with an allergy to peanuts.

Agency warns of possible allergen contamination Saturday 9 August 2008 The Agency has been informed that a batch of 'Snacking Essentials' 100g packets of milk chocolate covered raisins, best before April 09, has been withdrawn because of possible contamination with milk chocolate covered peanuts.

Salmonella Agona outbreak update Friday 8 August 2008 The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has today issued an update on the recent outbreak of Salmonella Agona in Ireland and the UK.

Julian Graves recalls chocolate Thursday 7 August 2008 Julian Graves has recalled some Milk Chocolate Coated Ginger (400g), because a milk chocolate brazil nut has been found in the product, which is not mentioned in the ingredients list. Although the product label includes a 'May contain nuts' statement, the product is a possible health risk for people with a nut allergy.

Contractor sought for dietary survey Wednesday 6 August 2008 The Food Standards Agency is looking for a contractor to carry out a dietary survey of infants and young children. This will be used to assist the Agency and Department of Heath to make sure people have the best available dietary information and nutritional advice to allow them to make informed choices about their diet.

Salmonella Agona outbreak Wednesday 6 August 2008 There has been an outbreak of Salmonella Agona in the UK and Ireland in recent months. The source of the outbreak is not yet known and the Agency, the Health Protection Agency and other relevant bodies are working hard to identify its source.

FSA launches Welsh Language Scheme Wednesday 6 August 2008 The Food Standards Agency has launched its second Welsh Language scheme, for the period 2008–12.

Morrisons recalls Natural Choice Tomato and Chicken Fusiloni Tuesday 5 August 2008 Morrisons has recalled some of its Natural Choice Tomato and Chicken Fusiloni (450g), because the wrong sauce has been packed in one batch of this product. The sauce contains a mustard ingredient, which is not mentioned on the label, resulting in incorrect allergen information.

Apple pies withdrawn Friday 1 August 2008 Tesco and Livwell Ltd have withdrawn some 'Free From' apple pies, because the apple filling might contain pieces of hard, blue plastic. The Livwell pies are only sold by Waitrose. The Agency has issued two Food Alerts for Information.

Views wanted on DHA-rich microalgal oil Friday 1 August 2008 An American company has applied to the Agency to extend the use of a DHA-rich algal oil to a wider range of food products, including dairy products, bakery products and soft drinks. The oil is a novel food ingredient.

Local authority audit published Thursday 31 July 2008 The Agency’s local authority audit report for Macclesfield is now available online.

FSA publishes listeria factsheet Thursday 31 July 2008 The Agency has today published a factsheet that details key control measures that can be taken to minimise the risk of developing an illness from listeria (listeriosis). The guidance has particular relevance to those preparing and supplying chilled ready-to-eat foods for vulnerable groups.

More catering companies commit to healthier food Wednesday 30 July 2008 More of the UK's workplace caterers have made commitments to provide healthier food, lower in salt, saturated fat and sugar. These agreements, which add to undertakings made by some of the biggest contract caterers and suppliers earlier this year, will result in a positive impact on more than one and a half million meals served in workplaces every day.

Views wanted on Touchi extract Tuesday 29 July 2008 A Japanese company has applied to the Agency for approval to market its Touchi extract from fermented black beans as a novel food ingredient.

EFSA seeks 'competent organisations' Tuesday 29 July 2008 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is inviting organisations to apply to be added to its list of ‘competent organisations’ capable of assisting it in achieving its remit of enlarging co-operation and networking across Europe.

ACMSF consults on botulism in sheep and goats report Tuesday 29 July 2008 The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) is seeking views on its draft report on botulism in sheep and goats.

Asda recalls organic roasted mixed nuts Monday 28 July 2008 Asda has recalled some of its Wholefoods Organic Roasted Mixed Nuts (200g) because the product contains peanuts, which are not mentioned on the product label. This means the product is a possible health risk for individuals with an allergy to peanuts. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Online incident report form for food authorities Friday 25 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency has launched an online system for all UK local and port health authorities, to notify the Agency of food incidents. Previously, the reporting system was only available to industry.

Guidance on vacuum packed food safety Wednesday 23 July 2008 The Agency has today published new guidance and a factsheet on the safe production of vacuum and modified atmosphere packed foods. The guidance has been developed for small businesses and environmental health officers to tackle the problem of Clostridium botulinum.

Views wanted on gluten regulation Wednesday 23 July 2008 The FSA is seeking views on a proposed European Commission regulation, concerning the composition and labelling of foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten.

Salt levels continue to fall Tuesday 22 July 2008 The FSA today has published new evidence, which shows the UK’s average daily salt consumption has fallen from 9.5g to 8.6g since 2000. Although the recent figures show an encouraging decline in salt levels, more challenging targets are needed to meet the Government's target of 6g a day.

FSANI picks up award at major agricultural show Tuesday 22 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland has won an award for having the best trade stand at the popular Castlewellan Show, which took place last weekend. The judges said they were impressed by the way the consumer messages had been tied together - from farm to fork.

Contractors sought for Welsh translation Monday 21 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency is seeking a number of suppliers to carry out written translation from English into Welsh, to assist the Agency in meeting its commitment to Welsh language provision.

FSA Board meeting video online Friday 18 July 2008 The video and podcast of the Board meeting held at the Holland House Hotel, Cardiff, on 17 July are now available. The meeting was chaired by Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured).

Agency welcomes long life 1% milk Friday 18 July 2008 The Agency welcomes the launch of a long-life 1% milk, produced by Milk Link and available in Sainsbury’s stores from this week and in other stores nationwide shortly.

Proposed workshop on Joint Code of Practice audit outputs Friday 18 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) are contacting the quality assurance managers of their current research contractors, to gauge interest in the possibility of holding an autumn workshop on compliance with the provisions of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoPR).

Taking forward the Healthy Food Code of Good Practice Friday 18 July 2008 The Agency and the Department of Health (DH) have jointly written to food industry leaders and other interested parties setting out plans to assist in delivering the Healthy Food Code of Good Practice.

Latest FSA News published and available online Friday 18 July 2008 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency’s magazine for stakeholders, highlights the recommendations of the Cabinet Office framework document on food and outlines the key role to be played by the Agency in the Government’s food strategy for the 21st century.

Agency publishes annual report for 2007/08 Thursday 17 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency’s annual report for 2007/08 has been published and laid before the Westminster Parliament, the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and Northern Ireland Assembly.

Attitude to health affects eating habits Thursday 17 July 2008 The Agency has carried out qualitative research to find out more about how people’s eating habits are determined by their attitudes towards food and health, rather than by other demographic characteristics, such as age and gender.

New Director at Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland Thursday 17 July 2008 Gerry McCurdy has been appointed Director at Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI), as successor to current Director Morris McAllister who is due to retire in September. Gerry presently holds the position of Deputy Director at FSANI.

FSA executive changes Thursday 17 July 2008 Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency, told the Agency’s Board meeting in Cardiff today about a number of changes in senior positions in the FSA.

Board recommends changes to MHS charges Thursday 17 July 2008 At its meeting today, the FSA Board agreed to recommend a number of proposed changes to the current Meat Hygiene Service charging regime, which currently regulates the UK meat industry. The Board also reaffirmed its support for small rural abattoirs during the development of the new charging policy.

Marks & Spencer withdraws spread Wednesday 16 July 2008 Marks & Spencer has withdrawn some of its Reduced Fat Olive Spread (500g) because the product contains a milk ingredient that is not mentioned on the label, resulting in incorrect allergen information. This means the product is a possible health risk for milk allergic individuals.

Chinese rice products containing an unauthorised rice Wednesday 16 July 2008 The Agency has provided a list of Chinese rice products tested since 12 April and found to contain Bt63 rice. In April, the European Commission adopted an emergency measure requiring imports of specified products originating or consigned from China to be certified free of the unauthorised genetically modified organism (GMO) known as 'Bt63'.

Morrisons withdraws Bettabuy Beans and Sausages Wednesday 16 July 2008 Morrisons has withdrawn its own-brand Bettabuy Beans and Sausages (425g cans) product because it contains breadcrumbs, which contain wheat and gluten that are not mentioned in the ingredients list on the product label. This means this product is a possible health risk for individuals allergic or intolerant to wheat or intolerant to gluten.

EFSA publishes aluminium opinion Tuesday 15 July 2008 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has today published an opinion on the safety of aluminium from dietary intake. The Agency is not changing its advice to people as a result of this opinion.

Update on saturated fat work Tuesday 15 July 2008 The Agency updated key industry stakeholders, at a meeting today, on work to reduce the amount of saturated fat the UK population is eating, which on average is currently 20% above Government recommendations.

FSA Board meeting papers published Friday 11 July 2008 The agenda and papers for next Thursday’s FSA open Board meeting have been published. The meeting is being held at the Holland House Hotel, Cardiff, on 17 July. It will begin at 9am on Thursday 17 July 2008 and will be chaired by Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton (pictured). You can attend in person, watch it live online or listen-in via a free phone number.

Sainsbury's withdraws two Freefrom products Friday 11 July 2008 Sainsbury's has withdrawn two of its Freeform products because they may contain gluten, which is not mentioned on the product labels. Therefore, the products are a possible health risk for gluten allergic or intolerant individuals. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency to boost social science research capacity Friday 11 July 2008 The first meeting of the Social Science Research Committee, which was set up in April to help the Agency strengthen its capacity for research in this area, will take place on Wednesday 23 July 2008.

Local authority audit published Friday 11 July 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for East Ayrshire is now available online.

Agency action on Specified Risk Material (SRM) breach Friday 11 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency has been informed by the Swedish authorities that food products derived from SRM from cattle more than 30 months old has been exported to the UK.

Agency encourages better use of marketing terms for food labelling Thursday 10 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency has revised its guidance on the use of marketing terms, such as 'fresh', 'pure' and 'natural' for food labelling.

Dame Sheila McKechnie Award winners announced Wednesday 9 July 2008 The Agency is pleased to announce the 2008 winners for the Dame Sheila McKechnie Award. The three winners are: Community Supported Farming (CSF), Teen Cuisine, and Community Food Initiatives North East. Each of these initiatives has made an exceptional contribution to the battle against food inequality.

New consultation on phosphated di-starch phosphate Wednesday 9 July 2008 The Agency is holding a second consultation on an application to approve phosphated distarch phosphate as a novel food ingredient. This follows an amendment to the original draft advisory committee opinion so that it considers the consumption of the ingredient by people with renal disease.

Tesco withdraws Finest Triple Layer Indulgence Cake Wednesday 9 July 2008 Tesco has withdrawn its Finest Triple Layer Indulgence Cake because the product contains hazelnuts, which is not mentioned in the allergy information although it is listed as an ingredient.

SOP International Ltd recalls Kong Moon Rice Stick Wednesday 9 July 2008 SOP International Ltd has recalled some Kong Moon Rice Stick (454g) because of the presence of unauthorised 'Bt63' genetically modified rice. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Day In Import & Export Co Ltd recalls Guilin rice-flour noodles Tuesday 8 July 2008 Day In Import & Export Co Ltd has recalled some Guilin rice-flour noodles because of the presence of unauthorised 'Bt63' genetically modified rice. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Agency welcomes Cabinet Office report Monday 7 July 2008 The Agency today welcomes the report from the Cabinet Office Strategy Unit on a new food policy framework for the UK.

Support for nutrient profiling model Monday 7 July 2008 A panel of independent experts has given its backing to the Agency’s nutrient profiling model after its first year in use. The scoring system, which identifies foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar, was described as ‘scientifically robust and fit for its intended purpose’.

MHS Annual Report and Accounts 2007/08 Friday 4 July 2008 The thirteenth 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.

Views wanted on shiitake extract Friday 4 July 2008 A Danish company has applied to the Agency for approval to market its lentinan-rich extract from shiitake mushrooms as a novel food supplement and novel food ingredient.

Co-op recalls sliced cooked turkey breast Thursday 3 July 2008 The Co-op has recalled some sliced cooked turkey breast because of contamination with low levels of Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Do you know how hygienic your favourite eating house is? Thursday 3 July 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is consulting on a scheme to help consumers know at a glance how well their local takeaway or restaurant has done in food safety inspections.

Working with food in the classroom Thursday 3 July 2008 The Agency has published a statement on the handling, preparation and serving of food in school classrooms.

Post-Chernobyl monitoring reports published Friday 27 June 2008 The Agency has today published three reports on the monitoring of sheep at farms remaining under post-Chernobyl restrictions.

Dietary survey of infants and young children Friday 27 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is holding a meeting this month to offer potential contractors a chance to discuss in more detail the opportunity to carry out a survey of infants' and young children’s diets from the ages of 4 to 18 months old.

Imported food controls questionnaire 2007/08 Friday 27 June 2008 The Agency has today circulated to all local authorities and port health authorities its annual questionnaire on the enforcement of imported food controls between 1 April 2007 and 31 March 2008.

FSA warns about food fraud activity Thursday 26 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency and police are warning food companies to be on the alert to a fraud that may have affected a number of food businesses across the country. The fraud, which involves identity theft, could result in unsafe food being offered for sale.

FSA Wales partners Healthy Options Award Thursday 26 June 2008 FSA Wales have worked in partnership with local authorities, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and the National Public Health Service (NPHS) to develop an all-Wales Healthy Options Award. The award is based on a scheme that was developed by Caerphilly County Borough Council and was launched on 1 April following a successful pilot.

Agency seeks views on proposed use of cholesterol-lowering ingredient Wednesday 25 June 2008 The Agency is consulting on an initial draft opinion which considers that a phytosterol ingredient submitted by Naturis (ACI Group Ltd) is substantially equivalent to those already marketed by Archer Daniels Midland.

Northern Ireland coldstore conviction upheld Wednesday 25 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) has welcomed today’s decision at the County Court division of Fermanagh to uphold the conviction of a meat coldstore in County Fermanagh for offences under food hygiene legislation. The company has been fined a total of £6,500 for breaches of these regulations.

Tesco recalls cans of Beans and Sausage Wednesday 25 June 2008 Tesco has recalled some of its own brand of Beans and Sausage in various sized cans because of small pieces of plastic in the products. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Multi-language version of SFBB available online Tuesday 24 June 2008 Information designed to help small caterers and retailers implement 'Safer food, better business' (SFBB) into their food businesses can now be accessed at the click of a mouse.

M&S withdraws Cook! Haddock & Hake Fish Cakes Tuesday 24 June 2008 Marks & Spencer has withdrawn some packs of its Cook! Haddock & Hake Fish Cakes because sachets of soya sauce were added to a small number of packs instead of the tomato sauce listed on the label.

ACAF open meeting 3 June 2008 Monday 23 June 2008 The Advisory Committee On Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held an open meeting in Belfast on 3 June 2008.

Consumers give their views on eating out Sunday 22 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today published a survey of more than 2,000 people across the UK that provides a snapshot of what consumers want when they eat out. The questions will help the Agency to develop more in-depth research to inform future activity in this area and were posed as part of an omnibus survey.

Agency salt partners take their wares to market Friday 20 June 2008 Eighty stakeholders, including nutritionists, dietitians and delegates from industry and academia, attended an FSA event held last week to disseminate best practice arising from salt-reduction initiatives. These were organised as part of phase three of the Agency’s salt programme.

Scottish ruling on infant formula regulations Friday 20 June 2008 A ruling issued by the Court of Session in Edinburgh this week means that manufacturers of infant formula and follow-on formula in Scotland have until 1 January 2010 to introduce new labelling requirements.

The role of portion sizes in our diet Thursday 19 June 2008 The Agency has today published the findings of a workshop and a report, which consider how changes in portion sizes of everyday foods have affected people's energy intake, weight gain and diet.

SMA Nutrition recalls milk powder Thursday 19 June 2008 SMA Nutrition has recalled some SMA Progress Follow-on Milk Powder (900g) because of reports of compacted lumps in the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Peacock Bakeries withdraws Chewy Fudge Brownie Slice Wednesday 18 June 2008 Peacock Bakeries has withdrawn its Chewy Fudge Brownie Slice because the product contains walnuts, milk and sulphites as ingredients, which are not mentioned on the product label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with sensitivities to nuts, milk and/or sulphites.

Food Law Code of Practice England Tuesday 17 June 2008 The Agency has today published a revised Food Law Code of Practice for England. The code provides instructions and criteria to which local authorities should have regard when carrying out their food law regulatory and enforcement duties.

Come and see the new WFAC members Tuesday 17 June 2008 John Spence (pictured), chair of the Welsh Food Advisory Committee (WFAC), the independent advisory committee of the Food Standards Agency Wales (FSAW), and the FSAW Director, Steve Wearne, have welcomed the appointment of four new members to the committee from 1 July 2008. The next open meeting of the committee is on 3 July 2008 in Llandudno.

Survey results on iodine levels in UK foods Monday 16 June 2008 The Agency has today published the results of a survey measuring the levels of iodine in dairy and seaweed-based foods produced in the UK. The survey concluded that concentrations in these foods do not pose a health concern for consumers, including young children.

Dried yeast from China Friday 13 June 2008 The FSA has been made aware that dried irradiated yeast has been imported into the UK from China, which is in breach of regulations.

FSA News published and online Thursday 12 June 2008 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency’s magazine for stakeholders, has been published and is available online. It contains full details of all the Food Champion Award winning projects and the latest on the Agency’s GermWatch campaign.

Golden Saffron Ltd recalls Khakshir seeds Thursday 12 June 2008 Golden Saffron Ltd has recalled some Khakshir seeds because of salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Podcast and video of Board meeting available Thursday 12 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency Board met yesterday at the Greater London Authority. The podcast and video-on-demand of the meeting are now available.

SMA Nutrition recalls SMA Gold Thursday 12 June 2008 SMA Nutrition has recalled some SMA Gold ready to use liquid infant milk (1 litre cartons) because of reports that the product has curdled. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Westminster and Bristol are national 'Food Champions' Wednesday 11 June 2008 The two national winners of the first Food Champion Awards for local authorities are Westminster City Council, for its work with the Chinese business community, and Bristol City Council for its community diet and nutrition initiatives. The regional and local Food Champions winners were announced by the Agency in April.

Training for enforcement officers in England Wednesday 11 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency is providing another update training course for local authority food law enforcement officers responsible for the inspection of premises with on-farm pasteurisation equipment.

Board discusses food information regulations Wednesday 11 June 2008 In January, the European Commission issued a proposal for a new food information regulation that aims to update and simplify existing food labelling rules. The Agency has consulted on the proposals and, following the Board’s approval today, will now contribute to the development of the UK’s position in Europe on the new regulation.

Don't make your mealtime a horror story Monday 9 June 2008 Cases of salmonella and campylobacter food poisoning are set to soar to more than 120,000 in just three months this summer. The Agency's latest food hygiene campaign, 'GermWatch' aims to combat the rise in food poisoning cases, which double during the summer months and cost the economy, in England and Wales, upwards of £1.5 billion a year.

Update on Ukrainian sunflower oil Monday 9 June 2008 The Agency wrote to organisations representing suppliers and importers of cooking oils in May to alert them to the presence in the UK of sunflower oil containing mineral oil. The oil originated in Ukraine. Since then the European Commission has imposed a temporary ban on all imports of sunflower oil from Ukraine.

Agencies issue invitation to Euro funding seminar Friday 6 June 2008 Individuals with an interest in food research are invited to find out more about funding opportunities and on-going European research projects at a seminar in Birmingham on Friday 4 July.

Farmers in Northern Ireland take note Friday 6 June 2008 To help farmers keep their records properly, the Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) has produced 'Farm Notes', a notebook with advice and examples to make complying with food and feed hygiene easier.

Cloned animals research report published Thursday 5 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published research into the views of the UK public about cloning animals, and cloned animals, their offspring and their products (such as milk and eggs) entering the food chain.

EFSA launches online panel of experts Thursday 5 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is to have access to a new, online database of food safety experts, launched today by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA is the European Union’s scientific risk assessment body on food and feed safety.

Creative Ingredients recalls D'elitte chorizo Thursday 5 June 2008 Creative Ingredients has recalled some D'elitte branded chorizo products because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Bird flu near Banbury Wednesday 4 June 2008 The recent cases of bird flu on premises near Banbury, Oxfordshire, are not an issue for food safety, the Agency said today. Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.

BP Retail UK withdraws sandwiches Tuesday 3 June 2008 BP Retail UK has withdrawn some of its Wild Bean Café Ham, Cheese and Pickle Sandwiches because the product contains egg mayonnaise, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for people with an allergy to egg. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency encourages clearer food labelling Monday 2 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency has revised its guidance on clear labelling for food packaging.

Agency's latest research needs published Monday 2 June 2008 The Food Standards Agency has announced the research and surveys it is looking to commission.

Incidents report published Friday 30 May 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) today publishes its second Annual Report of Incidents. The new report shows how many food incidents the Agency handled in 2007 and what action was taken to protect consumers.

Waitrose recalls its Richly Fruited Loaf Friday 30 May 2008 Waitrose has recalled some of its Richly Fruited Loaf because the product contains walnuts, which are not mentioned on the ingredients list. This makes this product a possible health risk for people with an allergy to walnuts. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Update on Bantry Bay Seafood mussels Friday 30 May 2008 The Food Standards Agency is warning against eating a further Bantry Bay Seafoods frozen mussels product because it may contain AZP (Azaspiracid Shellfish Poisoning toxins), which are known to cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.

Consultation meeting on hygiene standards in food businesses in Scotland Wednesday 28 May 2008 The Food Standards Agency Scotland is to hold a meeting with stakeholders about the current 'Scores on the Doors' consultation on Tuesday 24 June 2008 in Glasgow.

Cookit grants for schools Friday 23 May 2008 The Agency is offering 50 grants to help schools purchase 'Cookit' sets. Cookit is a set of high quality cooking equipment. It contains all the equipment needed to teach basic cooking and baking skills to groups of up to 12 pupils. It also contains activities and recipes for teachers to help plan lessons.

Morrisons recalls Cooked Chicken Thins Friday 23 May 2008 Morrisons has recalled its own-brand Cooked Chicken Thins (125g) because the wrong ‘use by’ date has been printed on packaging. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

ACMSF committee members announced Friday 23 May 2008 A new and four renewing members of the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) were announced today by the Chair of the FSA, Dame Deirdre Hutton.

Agency publishes new weaning booklet Friday 23 May 2008 The Agency has today published a new booklet giving advice to parents and carers on feeding and weaning their babies.

New appointments to ACAF Friday 23 May 2008 FSA Chair Deirdre Hutton is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Ian Brown as Chair, and Barrie Fleming, Professor David Ian Givens and Edwin Snow as Members, to the Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF).

Imported dried figs from Turkey and aflatoxin testing update Friday 23 May 2008 The Agency has written a further letter to companies about sampling dried fig imports or dried fig-based products from Turkey for aflatoxins.

Applications invited for SFBB special grants Thursday 22 May 2008 The Agency is inviting applications from local authorities in England for the third wave of Safer food, better business (SFBB) special grants to help implement SFBB in small catering and retail businesses. The deadline for applications is 4 July 2008.

Views wanted on UK-wide 'scores on the doors' Tuesday 20 May 2008 The Agency is seeking views on proposals for establishing a UK-wide 'scores on the doors' scheme to provide consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses.

Aldreds the Bakers recalls luxury muffins Monday 19 May 2008 Aldreds the Bakers has recalled its own-brand luxury muffins because of the presence of mould in the custard filling. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

'Chef cards' to help allergy sufferers when eating out Monday 19 May 2008 The Agency has today published an interactive chef card to help people with food allergy or intolerance when they’re eating out. The simple credit card sized cards can be filled in and given to restaurant staff to let the chef know which foods the customer needs to avoid.

Lime Tree Pantry withdraws Lamb in Mint Gravy Pie Friday 16 May 2008 Lime Tree Pantry has withdrawn its own-brand Lamb in Mint gravy Pie because the product contains soya, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone allergic to soya. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Learning from projects worth their salt Thursday 15 May 2008 The Agency is holding a public meeting next month to disseminate the lessons learned from eight salt-reduction projects run over the past year by organisations working as partners in phase three of its salt campaign.

Agency seeks concept to help young people Thursday 15 May 2008 The Agency's Nutrition Policy and Advice branch is seeking a contractor to design, develop and produce a simple concept to help young people engage with the food competences and what the competences mean for young people.

Marks & Spencer withdraws mustard Wednesday 14 May 2008 Marks & Spencer has withdrawn its Wholegrain Mustard (205g) because some of a Dijon mustard product, which contains sulphites, has been packed as wholegrain mustard. This means sulphites are not mentioned on the Wholegrain Mustard product label, making the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

FSA Wales launches Recipe for Life Wednesday 14 May 2008 Packed with eight nutritious, easy to make recipes and lots of top tips, Recipe for Life is FSA Wales' new recipe publication to help people over 50 achieve a healthy balanced diet.

Local authority audit published Tuesday 13 May 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for Renfrewshire is now available online.

Local authority audit published Monday 12 May 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for Inverclyde is now available online.

Report issued on nicarbazin residues in chicken Monday 12 May 2008 A report has been published today by the Agency into the possible causes of nicarbazin residues in chicken. Nicarbazin is a medicated feed additive used to treat a debilitating poultry disease called coccidiosis.

Nestle recalls some Nutrition Build-up Original Friday 9 May 2008 Nestle has recalled, as a precautionary measure, one batch of its own-brand Nutrition Build-up Original (400g) because it may contain small pieces of thin plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Waitrose recalls organic eggs Friday 9 May 2008 Waitrose has recalled organic eggs from one farm because they may be contaminated with lead. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Sunflower oil from Ukraine Friday 9 May 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today written to organisations representing suppliers and importers of cooking oils, to alert them to the presence in the UK of sunflower oil containing significant levels of mineral oil. The sunflower oil originated in Ukraine.

Review of new baby milk controls Thursday 8 May 2008 The FSA and Department of Health have appointed an independently chaired panel with expertise in infant nutrition, sociology, health inequalities and advertising to review new controls on the advertising and presentation of infant and follow-on formula.

MHS transformation exceeds expectations Wednesday 7 May 2008 The progress made by the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) to transform into a leaner and more efficient organisation was applauded by the Board of the Food Standards Agency at its meeting today.

FSA News supplement on the Meat Hygiene Service Wednesday 7 May 2008 Find out more about the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) and how it’s fulfilling its responsibilities better than ever. A special supplement on the MHS and its transformation is available in the latest issue of FSA News.

Paxton & Whitfield withdraws chicken liver pâté Wednesday 7 May 2008 Paxton & Whitfield has withdrawn its Chicken Liver Pâté(270g) because the product contains sulphites, which are not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Practical advice for safer food in care homes Tuesday 6 May 2008 The Agency has launched a Safer food, better business (SFBB) supplement designed to help small caterers and staff working in care homes across the UK prepare and cook safer food for their residents.

Britvic recalls a batch of Robinsons Strawberry Fruit Shoot Saturday 3 May 2008 Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd has recalled a batch of Robinsons Fruit Shoot Strawberry No Added Sugar 200ml as a precautionary measure, due to possible nut contamination.

Mussels from Bantry Bay Seafoods warning Friday 2 May 2008 The Food Standards Agency is warning people not to eat certain batches of frozen mussels produced by Irish company Bantry Bay Seafoods because they may contain AZP (Azaspiracid Shellfish Poisoning toxins), which are known to cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.

Asda recalls flapjacks Friday 2 May 2008 Asda has recalled some own-brand Flapjack Mini Bites because they might contain glass fragments. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Primula Cheese Spread recalled Friday 2 May 2008 Kavli Ltd has recalled its own brand Primula Cheese Spread with Ham 150g (tube), due to possible presence of small pieces of plastic in the product within the ham ingredient. Mixed selection packs (sold through Cash and Carry) containing this product have also been recalled.The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Sainsbury's recalls chocolate and toffee crisp bites Friday 2 May 2008 Sainsbury’s has recalled some if its own-brand Chocolate and Toffee Crisp Bites because they might be contaminated with glass. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Arsenic in rice Wednesday 30 April 2008 The Agency today issued reassurance to consumers, following reports on arsenic levels in baby rice and in rice milk.

Food Safety Week 9-13 June 2008 Monday 28 April 2008 Food Safety Week will be taking place this summer between 9-13 June, with a range of events being run across the UK in schools, community groups and local councils, to highlight the importance of food safety and hygiene in the home. Why don't you find out what events are being organised in your local area?

New proposals on novel foods Monday 28 April 2008 The European Commission is proposing to update the approvals process for novel foods, and clarify the definition of novel foods, including the latest developments in the area such as cloning and nanotechnology. The Agency has issued a consultation on the proposals.

Provision of services related to exercise support for food incidents Monday 28 April 2008 The Agency is seeking a contractor to take the lead in devising scenarios and driving the delivery for a series of food-incident related exercises, in liaison with members of the Agency's Emergency Planning Branch and the Emergency Exercise Stakeholder Working Group (EESWG).

New rules on specified risk material Friday 25 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has welcomed new legislation that comes into force tomorrow, Saturday 26 April. The legislation raises the age at which bovine vertebral column (VC) is classified as Specified Risk Material (SRM) from 24 to 30 months.

Colours and hyperactivity advice Friday 25 April 2008 The FSA Board discussed, at its meeting earlier this month, the University of Southampton research into the effect of certain artificial colours on hyperactivity in some children. During the meeting the Board requested that the Agency look again at the way its advice to parents is presented, to ensure it is as clear and useful as possible.

COT recruitment of specialist members Friday 25 April 2008 The Chair of the Food Standards Agency and the Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Health invite applications for specialist Members of the Committee on Toxicity which will become vacant from 1 September 2008.

East End Foods recalls dill seeds Friday 25 April 2008 East End Foods has recalled its own-brand dill seeds because of the presence of salmonella in one batch. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Natco recalls batch of fennel seeds Thursday 24 April 2008 Natco Foods Ltd has recalled a certain batch code of its Fennel Seeds product, due to the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Possible feed contamination incident Thursday 24 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency wrote to stakeholders on Tuesday 22 April to inform them of possible contamination of animal feed imported into the UK from Sweden. The text of the note can be found below.

Tesco and Waitrose recall houmous products Wednesday 23 April 2008 Waitrose and Tesco have recalled some of their own brand houmous products due to the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued two Food Alerts for Information.

Use of food assurance scheme guidance reviewed Wednesday 23 April 2008 Most of the UK's main food assurance schemes are following FSA guidance aimed at ensuring better information for consumers about food standards, according to a report published today by the Agency.

Aldi recalls Cucina pizza batch Thursday 17 April 2008 Aldi has recalled some Cucina Stone Baked Mixed Vegetable Pizza (460g) because some BBQ Chicken pizza has been incorrectly placed in Mixed Vegetable pizza packaging.

New social science research committee established Thursday 17 April 2008 The Agency has set up a new, independent Social Science Research Committee (SSRC) to help strengthen its capacity for social science research, and add to its evidence base.

Appointment of the Central Science Laboratory (CSL) Tuesday 15 April 2008 Last week (7 April) the Agency announced that its Food Protection Division has appointed the Central Science Laboratory (CSL) as the UK’s National Reference Laboratory for contaminants in food.

Latest FSA News published and available online Monday 14 April 2008 The latest issue of FSA News, the Agency’s magazine for stakeholders, has been published and is available online.

Views sought on new Food Safety Act guidance Monday 14 April 2008 The Agency is consulting on a revised set of guidance notes for businesses on the Food Safety Act 1990.

Guidance on two regulations published Monday 14 April 2008 The Agency has today published guidance to compliance with two European regulations: one on labelling and advertising and one on adding substances to food.

Board discusses colours advice Friday 11 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency Board, at its April open meeting, discussed the possible effects of certain food colours on children's behaviour and agreed advice to Ministers to help inform the UK's negotiating position in Europe on this issue.

Board meeting video online Friday 11 April 2008 The video and podcast of yesterday's FSA open Board meeting in London is available to view online.

Communications protocol published Friday 11 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is today publishing a protocol outlining how it communicates during food incidents.

Mislabelled chocolates containing milk protein withdrawn Friday 11 April 2008 Some chocolates have been withdrawn by three companies because the products contain a milk protein, which is not an intended ingredient. This makes the products a possible health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued three Allergy Alerts.

Food champions announced Friday 11 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has awarded Food Champion status to 11 local authorities. This is to acknowledge the important role they play in their local community and to recognise the good practice they have demonstrated.

Second update on Julian Graves seed recall Thursday 10 April 2008 The Agency has issued a second updated Food Alert for Information on the recall by Julian Graves of some seed products contaminated with salmonella.

Review for Agency's use of science Wednesday 9 April 2008 How the Food Standards Agency commissions, quality-assures and uses science and scientific advice is being reviewed by the Government Office for Science (GOS).

Emergency measures on Chinese rice products Wednesday 9 April 2008 An emergency measure adopted by the European Commission will apply from 15 April 2008, to make sure rice and rice products imported from China do not contain an unauthorised genetically modified (GM) rice known as 'Bt63'. Local authorities have been asked to liaise with businesses in their local area that may sell affected products. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action.

Eat Natural bars with cranberries, macadamias and dark chocolate withdrawn Tuesday 8 April 2008 Eat Natural has withdrawn some Eat Natural bars of nuts and fruit with cranberries, macadamias and dark chocolate because they contain a milk protein that is not mentioned on the product label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Croeso i eatwell Tuesday 8 April 2008 Eatwell, the Food Standards Agency's (FSA) consumer advice website, is now available to view in the Welsh language. The eatwell website was launched in 2004. It gives clear advice on safe and healthy eating for consumers of all ages.

New members needed for residue committee Tuesday 8 April 2008 Defra is looking to appoint three new members for the Pesticides Residues Committee (PRC), which advises the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Government Ministers.

Agency seeks director for Northern Ireland Tuesday 8 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland is looking for a director to meet the challenge of consumers, stakeholders and industry in Northern Ireland.

Contractor sought to provide management and facilitation services Tuesday 8 April 2008 The Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS) is seeking a contractor to carry out management and facilitation services to a teachers panel for Scotland for the proposed duration of the three-year project.

Views wanted on D-ribose application Tuesday 8 April 2008 A company has applied to the Food Standards Agency to approve D-ribose, a type of sugar, as a novel food ingredient.

Golden Cross Cheese Company recall Friday 4 April 2008 Golden Cross Cheese Company Ltd has recalled some of its Flower Marie Unpasteurised Soft Mould Ripened Cheese because of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Waitrose recalls alfalfa seeds Friday 4 April 2008 Waitrose has recalled some of its own-brand alfalfa seeds because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Les Grand Chais de France recalls wine Friday 4 April 2008 Les Grand Chais de France has recalled Calvet Limited Release Sauvignon Blanc (25cl) because the product may contain glass. The wine is sold only by Sainsbury's. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Imported food database launched Thursday 3 April 2008 The Agency has launched the Guidance and Regulatory Advice on Import Legislation (GRAIL) database to help local authority officers enforce controls on food being commercially imported into the UK from non-EU countries.

Local authority audit published Thursday 3 April 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for North Ayrshire Council is now available online.

Laziza International Mint Chutney withdrawn Thursday 3 April 2008 Goldfayre Trading Ltd has withdrawn some Laziza International Mint Chutney (330g) because the product contains sulphites, which are not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency welcomes launch of 1% milk Wednesday 2 April 2008 Sainsbury’s has today announced it will be launching the UK’s first supermarket own-brand milk with a 1% fat content.

Imported dried figs from Turkey and aflatoxin testing Wednesday 2 April 2008 The Agency has this week written to companies that import dried figs or dried fig-based products from Turkey, recommending additional testing for aflatoxins.

New resource catalogue from FSA Wales Monday 31 March 2008 The Food Standards Agency Wales has produced a new bilingual resource catalogue, listing all Agency publications and educational materials, available to anyone working with, or who has an interest in food.

More Vitalite 56% Fat Spread withdrawn Monday 31 March 2008 The Agency has issued an updated Allergy Alert in relation to the withdrawal by Dairy Crest of some Vitalite 56% Fat Spread, because it is labelled as 'soya free' but contains soya. Dairy Crest has withdrawn an additional date code of the product as a precautionary measure because it could also be a possible health risk for people with a soya allergy.

Increase to MHS charges implemented today Monday 31 March 2008 Increased charges for official checks in meat businesses come into force today, announce the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Green & Black's recalls hot chocolate drink Friday 28 March 2008 Green & Black's has recalled some of its own-brand Organic Hot Chocolate Drink (300g) because of glass fragments found in the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Dairy Crest withdraws Vitalite 56% Fat Spread Friday 28 March 2008 Dairy Crest has withdrawn some Vitalite 56% Fat Spread because it contains soya, which is not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone allergic to soya. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Gama Ltd recalls sesame seeds Thursday 27 March 2008 Gama Ltd has recalled some of its sesame seeds because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Update on emergency measures on Chinese rice products Thursday 27 March 2008 The Agency has written to food businesses and local authorities to alert them to new testing and analysis requirements for imports of rice products from China.

Scottish children's diet too high in sugar Thursday 27 March 2008 Children in Scotland are eating too much sugar, according to a Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS) survey published today. The report shows that the main sources of sugar in youngsters’ diets were soft drinks, confectionery, biscuits and cakes.

Time to register for research review Wednesday 26 March 2008 There is still time to register for the review of the Food Standards Agency foodborne diseases research programme. The review takes place from 23 to 25 June 2008 at the University of Warwick. The deadline for registration is 30 April 2008.

Who's meeting who? Tuesday 25 March 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and February 2008 details are now available online. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

Budget efficiency delivery plans for Northern Ireland Tuesday 25 March 2008 As part of the Northern Ireland Assembly budget 2008-2011, the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) required all Northern Ireland departments to make 3% year-on-year efficiency savings, with a 5% annual real reduction in administration.

Update on US GM rice Tuesday 25 March 2008 The Food Standards Agency has written to enforcement authorities and other stakeholders to inform them that the emergency measures controlling the import of rice products from the United States, which have been in place since 2006, have been amended.

New course for local authorities on diversity Wednesday 19 March 2008 The Agency is pleased to announce that it has recently developed a new one-day training course called ‘working effectively with diverse communities’ for local authority food law enforcement officers.

Wholesnax recalls chocolate coated snacks Tuesday 18 March 2008 Wholesnax has recalled some batches of its chocolate coated brazils, peanuts, raisins, peanuts and raisins and mixed nuts and raisins because they contain soya lecithin which is declared as lecithin in the ingredients list.

YO! Sushi says yes! to traffic lights Monday 17 March 2008 Restaurant group YO! Sushi has today become the first catering establishment to adopt the Agency's recommended multiple traffic light approach to front-of-pack nutrition food labelling.

Fish decontamination products position clarified Friday 14 March 2008 The Agency has written to the fish trade and industry, and trading standards and environmental officers, clarifying the position in relation to the use of certain products to decontaminate fish.

Latest FSA News published Friday 14 March 2008 The latest issue of FSA News, which has been published and is available online, contains a bumper eight-page research supplement.

EFSA publishes view on colours research Friday 14 March 2008 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has today issued its opinion of Agency-funded research on certain artificial food colours and children's behaviour.

Board agreement on Scores on the Doors Thursday 13 March 2008 At its open meeting held yesterday in Edinburgh, the FSA Board agreed that a single nationwide scores on the doors scheme should be put in place to make food business hygiene ratings available to consumers.

Board meeting video on demand Thursday 13 March 2008 The Agency's open Board meeting was held in Edinburgh on 10 March 2008. Items debated included Scores on the Doors and food incident prevention.

Safer food means better business in Wales Thursday 13 March 2008 Food Standards Agency Wales has been working with local authorities all over Wales to help small catering businesses comply with food hygiene regulations and ensure that food is safe for customers to eat.

Calling food business operators in Wales Thursday 13 March 2008 Food Standards Agency Wales will be holding a seminar for food business operators to discuss a new proposal for a Regulation on the provision of food information to consumers from the European Commission. The seminar is being held as part of the public consultation exercise due to end on 2 May 2008.

Codex Committee on Food Labelling to meet in Canada Thursday 13 March 2008 The Codex Committee on Food Labelling (CCFL), which is responsible for drawing up internationally-agreed standards and codes of practice, will be held in Ottawa, Canada, from 28 April – 2 May 2008.

Student Placement Scheme for local authorities Wednesday 12 March 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is inviting local authorities in England to apply for 'match funding' for an additional Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) student placement at their authority.

New legislation on spreadable fats and dairy products Wednesday 12 March 2008 Changes are being made to domestic legislation in light of the new Council Regulation (EC) No. 1234/2007. The regulation establishes a common organisation of agricultural markets and specific provisions for certain agricultural products.

Local authority enforcement activity data published Tuesday 11 March 2008 The Food Standards Agency has published a summary of the 2006/07 food law enforcement monitoring data sent to the Agency by local authorities.

The Health Store recalls some Maize Flour Polenta Tuesday 11 March 2008 The Health Store has recalled a batch of its own-brand Maize Flour Polenta because the product contains gluten but is labelled as being 'gluten free'. This makes it unsafe for anyone who is intolerant to gluten. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

TRS Wholesale recalls sesame seeds Tuesday 11 March 2008 TRS Wholesale Co. Limited has recalled some of its hulled sesame seeds product because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Are we 'bad science' junkies? Monday 10 March 2008 How good are we at judging what's risky to our health? Some of our perceptions of risk in our diet fly in the face of science, according to a new survey by the Food Standards Agency. The snapshot survey looked at how consumers perceive the risks associated with various food issues in comparison with the scientific evidence.

Get your business registered Monday 10 March 2008 The Food Standards Agency is launching a campaign today to encourage food businesses to register with their environmental health service at their local authority and help them run their business safely.

New EC measures on guar gum Monday 10 March 2008 The European Commission has introduced new measures to test guar gum imported from India.

New Chair for the COT Friday 7 March 2008 The Chair of the FSA, Deirdre Hutton, is pleased to announce that on 1 April 2008 Professor David Coggon OBE, will take up his appointment as Chair of the Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT). This appointment is initially for three years. He has been a member of the COT since 1 April 2007.

Update on further research into skin on sheep meat (smokies) Thursday 6 March 2008 In September 2007, the Food Standards Agency advised that it was proposing new research into skin-on sheep meat, known as smokies. A contract has been awarded to the Central Science Laboratory for a study that will investigate whether residues from medicines used during the sheep’s lifecycle are present in sheep skin, potentially posing a risk to consumers.

Subscribe to our RSS feeds Thursday 6 March 2008 There’s a new way of staying up to date with FSA food and allergy alerts and press releases by subscribing to our RSS feeds.

Marks & Spencer withdraws speciality pasta sauce Wednesday 5 March 2008 Marks & Spencer has withdrawn some of its Speciality Tomato & Chilli Pasta Sauce (350g) because it contains anchovies and sulphites, which are not mentioned on the label.

Why cheese sarnies are still on the menu Wednesday 5 March 2008 Find out why dairy isn’t scary in the blog today as Agency Chief Scientist Andrew Wadge looks at how a piece of research can take on a life of its own.

Bart Spices recalls organic purple cornmeal Tuesday 4 March 2008 Bart Spices Ltd has recalled all batches of its Organic Purple Cornmeal, due to the presence of excess fumonisins. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Food sampling advice video online Tuesday 4 March 2008 As part of the Agency’s continuing commitment to low cost training for local authority food enforcement officers, we are now making available our food sampling video online.

Update on Julian Graves seed product recall Tuesday 4 March 2008 The Agency has issued a second Food Alert for Information on the recall of seed products by Julian Graves.

Contractors sought for work on live bivalve molluscs Tuesday 4 March 2008 The Agency is seeking contractor(s) to provide a service for the collection of official control samples of water and live bivalve molluscs from Belfast/and or Larne Loughs.

Iceland Foods recalls chicken wings Tuesday 4 March 2008 Iceland Foods Ltd has recalled a batch of its Buffalo Chicken Wings, due to possible undercooking. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Suma Wholefoods recalls organic sesame and omega mixed seeds Tuesday 4 March 2008 Suma Wholefoods has recalled certain batches of Organic Sesame Seeds and Omega Mixed Seeds, due to the possible presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Update on folic acid fortification Monday 3 March 2008 Agency Chair Deirdre Hutton has written to the Chief Medical Officer Liam Donaldson to update him on current scientific work on folic acid and cancer risk.

Local authority audit published Monday 3 March 2008 The Agency's local authority food standards law enforcement audit report for Bath and North East Somerset Council is now available online.

Judicial review of infant formula regulations Friday 29 February 2008 In the High Court today a judge has ruled on a legal challenge brought by the Infant and Dietetic Foods Association (IDFA) against the Government regarding the implementation of new European legislation on infant and follow-on formula.

Julian Graves recalls sesame seeds Friday 29 February 2008 Julian Graves has recalled some of its sesame seeds (500g) because of the possible presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Invitation to novel foods workshop Friday 29 February 2008 The Food Standards Agency's Advisory Committee on Novel Food and Novel Food Processes is holding an open workshop on novel foods in London on Wednesday 2 April, 2008. Anyone can attend, including members of the public.

Agency publishes second Processed Food Databank Friday 29 February 2008 The Processed Food Databank is a reference tool designed to provide indicative information on the levels of sodium (salt), fat, sugar and other nutrients in processed foods.

Agency research needs published Thursday 28 February 2008 The Agency has published the latest list of work it needs carrying out under its research and survey programmes.

Asda withdraw Chicken and Sweetcorn Lattice Bake Wednesday 27 February 2008 Asda has withdrawn some of its own-brand Chicken and Sweetcorn Lattice Bake (400g) because the product contains fish, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone allergic to fish. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Survey on royal jelly supplements Wednesday 27 February 2008 In a survey published today on behalf of the Veterinary Residues Committee (VRC), the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) reports that traces of chloramphenicol, a veterinary medicine banned for use in food producing animals, were found in 18 samples of high concentration royal jelly nutritional supplements.

Views needed on novel food draft opinion Wednesday 27 February 2008 The Agency's advisory committee on novel foods has produced a draft opinion on a novel food that it has been asked to approve by Algatechnologies (1998) Ltd. The company wants to market an algal extract as an ingredient to food supplement manufacturers to be used in capsules and tablets.

Chequer Foods Ltd withdraws tomato sauce sachets Wednesday 27 February 2008 Chequer Foods Ltd has withdrawn one batch of its Portion Pak Tomato Sauce Sachet because of undeclared lactose on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone intolerant to lactose. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Who's meeting who? Tuesday 26 February 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and January details are available on line. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

Aldi recalls Houdek Premium Tex-Mex Meatballs Monday 25 February 2008 Aldi has recalled Houdek Premium Tex-Mex Meatballs (500g) because the product may contain glass pieces. The affected packs have best before by dates of 20/03/08 or earlier. No other Aldi products are known to be affected. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Who's meeting who ? Monday 25 February 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis. January 2008 details are now available online. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

Consumer confidence rises around many food issues Sunday 24 February 2008 The Agency's eighth annual Consumer Attitudes to Food Survey points to increased confidence among the public about the food they are consuming.

Counterfeit Glen's Vodka Friday 22 February 2008 The Food Standards Agency has received reports from local authorities of the seizure of 70cl bottles of counterfeit Glen's Vodka which contains higher levels of methanol than normally found in authentic Glen's Vodka. The levels of methanol are unlikely to be a health hazard but, as a precautionary measure, the Agency is advising people not to drink the counterfeit vodka.

Attend the first meeting of the GACS Friday 22 February 2008 An open invitation to attend the first meeting of the new General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) committee has been issued today by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Imperial Snack Foods Ltd recalls seed mix Friday 22 February 2008 Imperial Snack Foods Ltd has recalled some of its Premier Quality Seed Mix (150g) because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

DVD launched to train staff in SFBB Thursday 21 February 2008 The Agency has launched a DVD designed to help small caterers and retailers across the UK implement 'Safer food, better business' (SFBB) into their food businesses and improve food safety.

Come and take part in Agency science debate Thursday 21 February 2008 As the 'good food versus bad food' debate becomes a growing national preoccupation, what role should science and evidence play in the choices we make about food? This question is at the heart of an afternoon panel discussion, which you can join in, on 11 March. It will be hosted by the Agency's new General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) as part of National Science and Engineering Week.

Third update on Scottish salmon withdrawal Thursday 21 February 2008 The Agency has issued a third updated Food Alert for Information on the withdrawal by a number of retailers of fresh Scottish salmon (but not organic salmon), because of a risk of a taint, resulting in an unpleasant taste. A product sold by Aldi could possibly be affected and, as a precautionary measure, has been withdrawn from sale.

Updates on official controls Thursday 21 February 2008 The Agency has issued updates on European Regulation 882/2004 on official controls. Comments are sought on developing policy. The guidance for enforcers has also been updated.

Combating food fraud seminar Wednesday 20 February 2008 More than a hundred people from local authorities, consumer organisations, industry and the media, as well as public analysts, attended an Agency seminar last week on food authenticity and the analytical tools that can detect fraud.

Second update on Scottish salmon withdrawal Tuesday 19 February 2008 The Agency has issued a second updated Food Alert for Information on the withdrawal by a number of retailers of fresh Scottish salmon (but not organic salmon), because of a risk of a taint, resulting in an unpleasant taste.

Update on infant formula legislation: 18 February Monday 18 February 2008 Judicial review proceedings in England and Wales on the implementation of European Union (EU) legislation on infant and follow-on formula will take place on 28 and 29 February.

Board meeting video and audio now online Monday 18 February 2008 Don't worry if you missed the FSA open Board meeting on 13 February. You can now watch the webcast, or listen to the audio online, or subscribe to our podcast.

Latest FSA News published Monday 18 February 2008 The Agency’s Safer food, better business (SFBB) food hygiene initiative for caterers features prominently in this month’s issue of FSA News, with a special eight-page supplement.

More Scottish salmon withdrawn Friday 15 February 2008 The Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Information in relation to the withdrawal by Morrisons of its fresh Scottish salmon (but not organic salmon), because of a risk of a white spirit taint, resulting in an unpleasant taste. Further products have been recalled by Morrisons and a number of other retailers.

Views sought on food information for consumers Thursday 14 February 2008 The European Commission has published a proposal on the provision of information to consumers when they buy food, and the Agency has now issued a consultation document on the proposals.

Members sought for Welsh Food Advisory Committee Thursday 14 February 2008 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee provides advice and information to the Agency about food safety and other consumer interests in relation to food. The Committee is seeking to recruit up to four new members.

Emergency measures on Chinese rice products Wednesday 13 February 2008 A European Commission committee yesterday decided to put special requirements on imports of rice products from China to make sure the products do not contain an unauthorised genetically modified (GM) rice.

Morrisons recalls fresh Scottish salmon Wednesday 13 February 2008 Morrisons has recalled its fresh Scottish salmon (but not organic salmon) sold from fresh fish counters and pre-packed chiller cabinets because of a possible risk of a white spirit taint, resulting in an unpleasant taste.

Revised UK National Control Plan published Tuesday 12 February 2008 The Agency and the four Agriculture/Rural Affairs Departments in the UK have recently reviewed the UK's National Control Plan, and a revised version has been published. The purpose of the plan is to ensure that effective control systems are in place for monitoring and enforcing feed and food law, animal health and animal welfare rules, and plant health law.

Agency participation in South Wales E. coli public inquiry Tuesday 12 February 2008 The public inquiry set up to investigate the second biggest outbreak of E. coli O157 in the UK, which occurred in South Wales in September 2005, starts taking evidence in public today when it holds its oral hearings in Cardiff.

Guidance on managing foodborne disease issued Monday 11 February 2008 The Food Standards Agency has published revised guidance on the management of outbreaks of foodborne illness in England and Wales.

Co-op recalls canned ravioli Monday 11 February 2008 Co-op has recalled some of its canned ravioli (400g) because some meatballs and ravioli have been incorrectly placed in the ravioli packaging.

Three new FSA Board Members appointed Friday 8 February 2008 Minister of State for Health Dawn Primarolo has appointed three new Food Standards Agency Board Members after consultation with health ministers for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Welsh Food Advisory Committee to meet on 5 March 2008 Thursday 7 February 2008 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee of Food Standards Agency Wales is holding an open meeting in Llandrindod Wells on Wednesday 5 March 2008.

ACAF open meeting 5 March 2008 Thursday 7 February 2008 The Advisory Committee On Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) will be holding an open meeting in London on 5 March 2008. Items on the agenda include, lipgene project - the production of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in transgenic plants, biofuels and the ACAF review of feed law enforcement.

Eurostock judicial review update Thursday 7 February 2008 Following discussions between the parties, Eurostock has withdrawn judicial review proceedings over the issue of the production of bovine head meat at its cutting plant in Northern Ireland.

Update training for enforcement officers in England Thursday 7 February 2008 HACCP assessment and vacuum packing update training is available to local authority food law enforcement officers in England. These courses are part of the continuing programme of quality update training for enforcers at a cost that is affordable to local authorities.

Agency to review fish advice Wednesday 6 February 2008 The Agency is to review its advice on eating fish in relation to the sustainability of some types of fish.

First steps to reduce saturated fats Tuesday 5 February 2008 The Agency has announced the first steps of its activity to help people in the UK reduce the amount of saturated fat they eat.

Accessing healthy food in Scotland Tuesday 5 February 2008 The Food Standards Agency Scotland has today published a new study, which looks at the availability of affordable healthy food across Scotland.

Monmouth Coffee Company Ltd recalls chocolate Tuesday 5 February 2008 Monmouth Coffee Company Ltd has recalled all date codes of Pralus Brut de São Tomé - Barre de la Plantation chocolate bar (160g) because the product might contain small metal pieces. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Deadline approaching for postgrad applications Tuesday 5 February 2008 The Agency is reminding would-be applicants that the closing date for applying for its postgraduate research training scholarships (advertised last autumn) is 29 February 2008.

Rank Hovis recalls flour Monday 4 February 2008 Rank Hovis has recalled some of its Elephant Atta, Fassal and Goldcrest flour because the products might contain small metal pieces. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

East End Foods plc recalls Dried Apricots Seedless Monday 4 February 2008 East End Foods plc has recalled its own-brand Dried Apricots Seedless (300g) because the product contains sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label.

Batches of Walkers crisps recalled Friday 1 February 2008 Walkers Snack Foods Ltd has recalled some date codes of Walkers crisps because the products could contain pieces of yellow rubber. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Incident workshop places available Friday 1 February 2008 Two workshops on incident prevention and response, organised by the Food Standards Agency for food manufacturers, are due to take place this month in Nottingham.

Kashmiri Style Plum Chutney Mix update Friday 1 February 2008 Investigations have revealed that a further batch of 275g jars of Laziza International Kashmiri Plum Chutney contain undeclared sulphite levels. Because the label doesn't make this clear, it could be unsafe for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an updated Allergy Alert.

UK health claims submitted to Europe Thursday 31 January 2008 Action to give shoppers food labelled with health claims they can trust moved forward today with the deadline for EU countries to submit claims to the European Commission.

EC food information proposal: update Thursday 31 January 2008 The European Commission has adopted a proposal for new legislation on the provision of food information to consumers. The adoption of a proposal is the first stage in the development of new EU regulations.

Morrisons recalls chicken fillets with sauce Wednesday 30 January 2008 Morrisons has recalled its own-brand Chicken Fillets with Creamy Bacon and Mushroom Sauce (380g) because the product contains wheat flour that is not mentioned in the allergy information, although it is listed as an ingredient.

New committee members appointed Tuesday 29 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has appointed six new Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) members, who each began their three-year term of membership in January 2008.

Fighting food fraud Tuesday 29 January 2008 Tackling food fraud is the main topic of discussion this week at an event hosted by the Food Standards Agency and the European Food Law Enforcement Practitioners Forum. You can read the speech that Ian Reynolds, FSA Deputy Chair (pictured), delivered to the conference.

Laziza International Aloo Bukhara (Plum) Chutney withdrawal Friday 25 January 2008 Goldfayre Trading Ltd is withdrawing some Laziza International Aloo Bukhara (Plum) Chutney (400g) because the product contains sulphites, which is not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people who are sensitive to sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency welcomes obesity strategy Wednesday 23 January 2008 The FSA welcomes the publication of the Department of Health's 'Healthy Weight, Healthy Lives' strategy. It clearly demonstrates that we all have a part to play in the effort to stem the rise of obesity in the UK – this includes Government and the food industry as well as consumers themselves.

Committee on Toxicity gets a new-look website Tuesday 22 January 2008 The expert advisory committee that advises the Food Standards Agency and other Government departments on chemical toxicity in food, consumer products and the environment has a new-look website.

Phone survey warning update Tuesday 22 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency has been alerted by Citizens Advice to a telephone survey of the general public that is claiming to ask certain questions on behalf of the Agency. The Agency is however involved in a study of infectious intestinal disease, which contains a telephone survey being carried out by the University of East Anglia.

Consumer engagement committee chair appointed Tuesday 22 January 2008 Philip Cullum will be taking up the position of Chair for its Advisory Committee on Consumer Engagement (ACCE), the Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced today. The Agency has also announced the names of the eight members who will sit on the new committee.

Agency incident strategy workshop Friday 18 January 2008 Nearly sixty food safety experts from across the UK have contributed to the drafting of an incident prevention strategy in an Agency workshop.

Workplace caterers commit to healthier food Thursday 17 January 2008 The Agency has published the first stages of its activity with workplace caterers to give people across the UK improved access to healthier meals while they are at work.

Joe's Ice Cream Ltd recalls chocolate ice cream Thursday 17 January 2008 Joe's Ice Cream Ltd has recalled some of its Joe's Luxury Italian Ice Cream Chocolate Dairy Ice Cream (120ml and 500ml) because the products contain soya lecithin, which is not mentioned on the labels. This makes the products unsuitable for people with a soya allergy. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

New members needed for residues committees Thursday 17 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is looking to nominate a new member for each of the Veterinary Residues Committee (VRC) and the Pesticides Residues Committee (PRC).

Update on applying EU Feed and Food Controls Wednesday 16 January 2008 The Agency has published an update on progress since August 2007 on the measures being taken to apply EU Regulation 882/2004 on official controls in the UK.

Guidance on allergies and unpackaged food published Wednesday 16 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today published new guidance to help food businesses assist customers who need to avoid certain ingredients because of an allergy.

Morrisons withdraws Carvery Breaded Ham Wednesday 16 January 2008 Morrisons has withdrawn some of its own-brand dry cured Carvery Breaded Ham (250g) because it contains wheat flour, which is not mentioned on the back of the pack label, although the front of pack label is correct. This means the product could be unsafe for people intolerant or allergic to wheat gluten. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Allergen changes to Trufree biscuit recipe Tuesday 15 January 2008 Trufree has informed the Food Standards Agency of reported cases of allergic reactions to its new range of custard cream biscuits. The biscuits had previously been wheat, gluten, egg and milk free, but a new recipe introduced by the company is only wheat and gluten free.

Sainsbury's recalls Wholenut Dark Chocolate Tuesday 15 January 2008 Sainsbury's has recalled one batch of its own-brand Wholenut Dark Chocolate (200g) because of a packaging error that could make it unsafe for people with an allergy to almonds. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Update on infant formula legislation Monday 14 January 2008 Implementation of new EU legislation on infant formula and follow-on formula for England and Wales, due to come into force on 11 January, has been suspended.

New TV ads make healthier choices easy Monday 14 January 2008 The Agency has today launched new TV advertisements as part of its ongoing activity to encourage shoppers to look for and use traffic light labels.

Sainsbury's recalls batch of own brand Hollandaise sauce Monday 14 January 2008 Sainsbury's is recalling, on a precautionary basis, a batch of its own brand Hollandaise sauce. The recall follows a single report of glass being found in a jar by a member of the public. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Tesco withdraws Finest Granola Squares Friday 11 January 2008 Tesco has withdrawn its five-pack Finest brand Granola Squares with a best before date of 17 February 2008 because a packaging error has led to the product containing soya and wheat which is not mentioned on the label.

Grants for hygiene and healthy eating initiatives Friday 11 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency has today announced the launch of the 2008/09 grant scheme for local food hygiene and healthy eating initiatives.

Call for nutrition and TSE research Friday 11 January 2008 The Agency is looking for applications to carry out work in three of its nutrition research programmes and one on transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs).

Sainsbury's recalls Italian Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce Thursday 10 January 2008 Sainsbury's has recalled a batch of its Italian Tomato and Basil Pasta Sauce (390g) because it contains cheese, which is not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for customers who are allergic to or intolerant of milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Who's meeting who? Wednesday 9 January 2008 The Agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by the Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis. This forms part of our commitment to openness.

New member needed for microbiology committee Wednesday 9 January 2008 The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) is looking for an expert in consumer issues to join the committee.

Northern Ireland coldstore successfully prosecuted Tuesday 8 January 2008 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) has welcomed yesterday's conviction of a meat coldstore in County Fermanagh for offences under food hygiene legislation at Magherafelt Magistrates Court.

Morrisons recalls own-brand yoghurt Tuesday 8 January 2008 A number of Morrisons Low Fat Summerfruit Yoghurt film lids have been incorrectly placed on Low Fat Dessert Style Yoghurts, which are otherwise fully and correctly labelled.

Asda withdraws frozen beef burgers Monday 7 January 2008 Asda has withdrawn its own-brand Frozen 20 Beef Burgers (1.14kg) because the product contains soya, which is not mentioned on the label.

Review of the Foodborne Diseases Research Programme Monday 7 January 2008 As part of this process of reviewing its research programmes in the area of microbiological safety, the Agency is formally evaluating the B14 Foodborne Diseases research programme with other relevant projects through an invited panel of independent experts. The review will be held 23 -25 June 2008 at the Training and Conference Centre, Radcliffe House, University of Warwick, Coventry.

Julian Graves recalls Milk Chocolate Coated Ginger Friday 4 January 2008 Julian Graves Ltd has recalled one batch of its Milk Chocolate Coated Ginger (150g) because the product might contain nuts, which are not mentioned on the label.

Local authority audit published Friday 4 January 2008 The Agency's local authority audit report for Fife Council is now available online.

Waitrose recalls cod with couscous and lentils Thursday 3 January 2008 Waitrose has recalled its own-brand Deliciously Different Lightly Spiced Cod with Couscous and Lentils. The product has been packed with a soya and ginger dressing instead of a tomato and ginger dressing and therefore contains mustard and soya, which are not mentioned on the label. This makes the product a possible health risk for customers who are allergic to mustard or soya.

Meeting of the Veterinary Medicines Directorate on 10 January 2008 Thursday 3 January 2008 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is holding an Open Meeting on 10 January 2008 to discuss proposals to amend European law relating to residues of veterinary medicines in food and have asked the Agency to help publicise this event.

Agency welcomes Cabinet Office food report Thursday 3 January 2008 The FSA welcomes today's publication of the Cabinet Office Strategy Unit report that looks at food and food policy in the UK.

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