[ARCHIVED CONTENT] Food Standards Agency

Morrisons recalls some ready-to-eat chicken Thursday 31 December 2009 Morrisons supermarket is recalling its own brand Ready to Eat Chilled Sweet Chilli Chicken Pieces (120g) after becoming aware that some packs may contain chicken that has been undercooked. The affected product has a use-by date of 2 January 2010.

New food chain rules to help 'farm to fork' safety Thursday 31 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency is reminding slaughterhouse operators and livestock keepers that they will soon have to ensure that Food Chain Information (FCI) is provided for all cattle, sheep and goats sent for slaughter. Guidance and model forms are available.

Update on Pakstar Curried Chick Peas alert Wednesday 30 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Action on cans of Pakstar Curried Chick Peas.

Iodine warning on soya drink update Wednesday 30 December 2009 Food safety authorities in Australia and New Zealand have informed the Food Standards Agency about high levels of iodine in a soya drink called 'Bonsoy', which some people use as an alternative to milk.

December 2009 Scores on the Doors update Tuesday 22 December 2009 The Agency has published an update on the progress since October 2009 on the development of the national six-tier ‘Scores on the doors’ (SotD) scheme for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Heinz recalls some apple and pear purée baby food Tuesday 22 December 2009 Heinz is recalling from customers some Heinz 100% Apple and Pear Purée baby food with a 'best before' date of 11 January 2011, because of leaking product pouches. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Don’t get stuffed by your Christmas turkey Friday 18 December 2009 Check out the FSA's Christmas TV and radio ads, including the humorous ‘Turkey Tussle’, which is a seasonal reminder to cook your turkey thoroughly. The ads are being aired tomorrow as part of the Agency's campaign to help people avoid serving up food poisoning this Christmas.

Report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for November 2009 Friday 18 December 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides an update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of the month following any discovery of a breach in controls.

Views wanted on Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products Friday 18 December 2009 Members of the National Codex Consultative Committee (NCCC) are meeting prior to the ninth Session of the Codex Committee on Milk and Milk Products (CCMMP) to help establish the UK position on items under discussion, including standards for processed cheese, fermented milk and the maximum levels of annatto extracts in milk and milk products.

Local authority audit published Friday 18 December 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Forest of Dean District Council is now available online.

Asda withdraws its Southern Fried Popcorn Chicken Wednesday 16 December 2009 Asda is withdrawing its own-brand ready-to-eat Southern Fried Popcorn Chicken with a 'use by' date of 18 December 2009, because the product contains wheat (gluten), which is not mentioned on the product label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or intolerant to wheat or gluten.

Score on the doors resources for local authorities Wednesday 16 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency is making available a support package for local authorities that adopt the Agency’s national 'Scores on the doors' scheme.

Don't let a turkey spoil your Christmas Tuesday 15 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency is hoping to reduce the number of food safety clangers that are served up this Christmas, with its Christmas food safety advertising campaign.

Agency announces simplification plan savings Monday 14 December 2009 Since 2005, the Food Standards Agency has delivered annual savings of up to £380m to businesses and the public sector. Details are published today in the 2009/10 Simplification Report and Plan. This is the fourth, and penultimate, report and plan in the current five year programme.

ACAF open meeting 3 December 2009 Friday 11 December 2009 The Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held its 48th meeting on 3 December 2009.

Agency commended for clear communication Wednesday 9 December 2009 The Agency has been given an award by the Plain English Campaign for a leaflet advising the over 60s about food safety and the food poisoning bug listeria.

Board meeting available online Wednesday 9 December 2009 Yesterday's Agency open Board meeting is now available as a video-on-demand and as a podcast. The agenda included discussions on the Agency's Science and Evidence Strategy 2010–15 and the annual report from the Agency's Director of Communications.

Agency's Strategy for 2010–2015 published Monday 7 December 2009 Consumers should expect to be eating safer food and be choosing healthier and more balanced meals by 2015 as a result of the Food Standards Agency’s Strategy for 2010–2015, published today.

Campylobacter report published by FSA in Scotland Monday 7 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency in Scotland has today published a report summarising the outcomes of a stakeholder event on campylobacter research held on 17 June 2009 at Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh.

Update on investigation into increase in salmonella Friday 4 December 2009 The Agency has issued an update on the investigation into a recent increase in England and Wales in the number of cases of a certain type of salmonella.

Boutinot recalls Chardonnay Marsanne Viognier wine Friday 4 December 2009 Boutinot has recalled the NOVAS Winemaker's Selection White 2006 brand of Chardonnay Marsanne Viognier wine, because it contains the preservative sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

Scores on the Doors Working Group agenda published Thursday 3 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 8 December meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Working Group considering scoring, banding and safeguards for business issues.

Consultation on scheme to show calories on menus Thursday 3 December 2009 The Food Standards Agency is seeking views on how a voluntary scheme to display calorie information on menus would work best in practice.

Ginni's withdraws soft dried apricots Wednesday 2 December 2009 Ginni’s is withdrawing its Soft Dried Apricots (200g) with a ‘best before’ date of October 2010, because the product contains the preservative sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

Guide to buying food when you have an allergy Tuesday 1 December 2009 An advice leaflet for people who have been newly diagnosed with a food allergy has been published by the Food Standards Agency in collaboration with six allergy and nutrition organisations.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Tuesday 1 December 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further four manufacturers producing product lines free of the colours have been added to the list.

Consultation on reducing saturated fat and greater choice of portion sizes for snacks Tuesday 1 December 2009 The Agency is consulting on its proposed recommendations to the food industry to reduce saturated fat and to increase the availability of healthier options and smaller portion sizes in savoury snacks.

Increase in cases of salmonella Monday 30 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency and Health Protection Agency (HPA) are investigating a recent increase in the number of cases of a certain type of salmonella in England and Wales. The increase in cases of Salmonella Enteritidis phage type (PT) 14b, since mid-August 2009, was noted by the HPA as part of its monitoring of infectious diseases.

Letter to correct The Grocer Saturday 28 November 2009 The Agency has written to the editor of The Grocer to set the record straight about the publication of the Scientific Advisory Committee's (SACN) draft report on energy. The report was published on 5 November.

New members for expert novel foods committee Friday 27 November 2009 The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) today announced the appointment of a new chair and a new expert committee member following a national recruitment exercise.

High street restaurant chains' healthy eating progress Thursday 26 November 2009 Five high street restaurant chains – Burger King, KFC, McDonald’s, the Subway chain and Wimpy – have today set out how they intend to take further steps to provide their customers with healthier choices.

Food safety advice for people affected by flooding Wednesday 25 November 2009 The Agency has issued food safety advice for people who have been affected by the recent flooding.

Report exploring attitudes to GM food published Wednesday 25 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is today publishing findings of a qualitative research project commissioned to explore public attitudes to genetic modification (GM). This report is timely and will be considered by the independent steering group that has been set up to shape and carry out the forthcoming GM Dialogue that the FSA has been asked to lead on, on behalf of government.

FSA Wales teacher pack available online Tuesday 24 November 2009 Teachers in Wales can now download a pack crammed full of resources to help equip pupils with the life skills and knowledge to make healthy and safer food choices.

Scores on the Doors Steering Group agenda published Monday 23 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 26 November meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Steering Group, which is overseeing the development of the national six-tier scores on the doors scheme (and the two-tier scheme in Scotland).

Views wanted on modified starch ingredient Monday 23 November 2009 An American company has applied to the Food Standards Agency for approval to market phosphated distarch phosphate as a novel food ingredient. A novel food is a food or food ingredient that does not have a significant history of consumption within the European Union before 15 May 1997.

Tesco withdraws brown rice Friday 20 November 2009 Tesco has withdrawn two batches of its own-brand wholegrain brown rice because they might be contaminated with insects. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Agency announces structural changes Friday 20 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency today announced a series of changes in the way it is structured to better support its strategy for the next five years.

Who's meeting who Thursday 19 November 2009 The agency publishes details of meetings held and attended by Chief Executive and Directors on a month by month basis and Oct 09 are now available online.

Contractors needed to research meat controls Thursday 19 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency is seeking a contractor, or contractors, to carry out research into future meat controls in the UK. The deadline for receiving applications is Monday 4 January 2010.

Northern Ireland puts healthy eating on the calendar Wednesday 18 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland is making available an eatwell 2010 calendar, following the success of the version it produced for this year.

Shape Up on a Shoestring Tuesday 17 November 2009 In Wales the Agency is supporting the Sports Council for Wales in its campaign to help win the battle of the bulge that’s stretching waistlines and budgets to breaking point.

Co-op recalls Indian cooking sauces Tuesday 17 November 2009 The Co-op is recalling three of its Truly Irresistible Indian Cooking Sauces, because the acidity levels are too low. As the acidity levels are too low, this means micro-organisms may grow and the sauces will be past their best before the 'best before' date that appears on the jar. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

GM Dialogue Steering Group members announced Monday 16 November 2009 The FSA has set up an independent steering group to shape and manage the forthcoming consumer dialogue work on genetic modification (GM) in food that the Agency has been asked to lead on, on behalf of the Government. The steering group includes stakeholders with a variety of expertise and with differing views on GM.

Scottish Study on exposure to radioactivity from seaweed Monday 16 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency in Scotland and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency in conjunction with the Health Protection Agency have published a detailed study assessing people’s exposure to radiation from foods produced using seaweed in the North and West of Scotland.

Radioactivity report published Monday 16 November 2009 The level of radioactivity people absorb through food remained below the EU legal limit during 2008, says a report published by the Food Standards Agency.

Dr Pepper withdrawn in Northern Ireland Thursday 12 November 2009 Coca Cola Hellenic Bottling Company has withdraw certain batches of Dr Pepper in Northern Ireland, because of high levels of benzoic acid. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

FSA commitment to independent scientific advice Thursday 12 November 2009 At its open meeting in London on Tuesday, the Food Standards Agency Board reaffirmed its commitment to science and independent challenge.

European Food Safety Authority issues opinions on six artificial colours Thursday 12 November 2009 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has today published its scientific opinions on six artificial food colours.

Board meeting available online Wednesday 11 November 2009 Yesterday's Agency open Board meeting is now available as a video-on-demand and as a podcast.

Morrisons recalls green Thai-style stir fry sauce Wednesday 11 November 2009 Morrisons has recalled its green Thai-style stir fry sauce, because it contains fish that is not mentioned on the label. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert advising anyone who is allergic to fish not to eat this product.

Latest FSA News published and available online Tuesday 10 November 2009 The latest issue of FSA News has been published and is available online. The November newsletter contains reports of recent Agency activities, and a wealth of advice ranging from some cracking tips on catering with eggs to safer food-preparation advice for childminders.

Future funding of UK meat controls Tuesday 10 November 2009 The Food Standards Agency Board, at its open Board meeting held in London today, discussed future funding of UK meat controls. After a wide-ranging discussion, the Board agreed three key principles.

Asda recalls some figs Tuesday 10 November 2009 Asda is recalling its own-brand Wholefoods Garland Figs (250g) with a 'best before' date of 31 July 2010, because the product is infested with moth larvae (moth larvae are caterpillars). The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for September 2009 Tuesday 10 November 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides an update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of the month following any discovery of a breach in controls.

Contractor needed to carry out 'review of reviews' of food choices research Monday 9 November 2009 The Agency wants to commission a ‘review of reviews’ to increase the Agency’s understanding of the major factors influencing people's food choices, particularly the barriers that people face to making healthier dietary choices and testing interventions that could help to overcome these barriers.

Future funding of UK meat controls review Friday 6 November 2009 At its open meeting on Tuesday 10 November, the Food Standards Agency Board will review the Agency’s policy on the future funding of UK meat controls. This concerns the costs of official inspections of abattoirs and cutting plants.

Local authority audits published Friday 6 November 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Cotswold and East Devon are now available online.

Tesco recalls some milk chocolate covered raisins Friday 6 November 2009 Tesco has recalled its own-brand Milk Chocolate Covered Raisins (200g) with a 'best before' date of October 2010, because the packs contain milk chocolate covered peanuts. Peanuts are not mentioned on the product label, which makes this product a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic to peanuts.

Scientific consultation on energy requirements launched Thursday 5 November 2009 The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) has today published its draft report on people’s energy requirements for scientific consultation. SACN has calculated new draft average energy requirements; that is the amount of energy from food needed to maintain health. For adults as a group, these values are up to 16% higher than the last time they were calculated in 1991.

Waitrose withdraws Thai red chicken curry Thursday 5 November 2009 Waitrose has withdrawn its Deliciously Different Thai Red Chicken Curry with Wild Rice, Pak Choi and Red Peppers, because it might contain shrimp paste that is not mentioned on the label.

Asda withdraws some chocolate coated nuts Wednesday 4 November 2009 Asda has withdrawn its Extra Special Chocolate Coated Nut Selection with a 'best before' date of 30 April 2010, because the product contains barley gluten, which is not mentioned on the product label. This means this product is a possible health risk for individuals with intolerance to barley gluten.

Caviar labelling leaflet Wednesday 4 November 2009 A new leaflet giving advice to local authority food law enforcement officers, as well as businesses and consumers, about caviar labelling has been produced by Westminster Council. The Agency is making the leaflet available online for other enforcement teams across the UK.

Sainsbury's recalls some dark chocolate Tuesday 3 November 2009 Sainsbury's has recalled its Belgian Wholenut Dark Chocolate with the 'best before' date of 17 September 2010, because the product might contain pieces of hard plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Some TK Maxx and Homesense pasta recalled Monday 2 November 2009 Some Conforti brand pasta products sold by TK Maxx and Homesense are being recalled from customers because they might be infested with insects. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information. If you have bought an affected product you can return it for a full refund.

Cow aged over 48 months enters food supply without being tested for BSE Monday 2 November 2009 The Agency has been notified that a 58 months old cow has entered the food supply without being tested for BSE. BSE testing is mandatory for cattle slaughtered for human consumption at over 48 months of age.

Agency chief scientist details salt evidence Monday 2 November 2009 The Agency’s Chief Scientist Andrew Wadge has posted a blog detailing the science behind our salt campaign in the wake of an article in The Times last week. The article challenges the evidence behind the campaign.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Monday 2 November 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further five manufacturers producing product lines free of the colours have been added to the list.

Action needed from business that add vitamins and minerals to food Friday 30 October 2009 The Agency is reminding businesses that voluntarily add vitamins and minerals to foods, to act now if the substances they use are not included in the European regulation on this topic.

Imported cow aged over 30 months not tested for BSE Thursday 29 October 2009 The Agency has been notified that a cow aged over 30 months and imported from the Czech Republic has not been tested for BSE.

Scores on the Doors Working Group agenda published Thursday 29 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 2 November meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Working Group considering scoring, banding and safeguards for business issues.

Trufree Choc Dippers recalled Wednesday 28 October 2009 Nutrition Point has recalled certain batches of Trufree Choc Dippers because the chocolate hazelnut dip might contain peanuts that are not mentioned on the label. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

FSA is added ingredient for Family Supercooks Monday 26 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has joined forces with the Good Food Channel to produce a new cooking show, Family Supercooks, which begins airing tonight.

More Hershey's cookies withdrawn Monday 26 October 2009 The Agency has issued an updated Allergy Alert, because a second Hershey’s Chocolate Reeses Cookies product might contain peanuts that are not mentioned on the label.

Waitrose recalls its own-brand semi-skimmed milk Friday 23 October 2009 Waitrose is recalling some semi-skimmed milk from its essential range, because it might contain small amounts of cleaning solution.

Open meeting of Welsh Food Advisory Committee: 4 November 2009 Tuesday 20 October 2009 If you have an interest in diet in Wales or the general work of the Food Standards Agency Wales, you are invited to attend the Welsh Food Advisory Committee open meeting in Llandudno on Wednesday 4 November 2009.

Folic acid and colorectal cancer risk update Monday 19 October 2009 The Agency’s Chief Executive, Tim Smith, has written to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Sir Liam Donaldson, with updated information on folic acid and cancer.

Agency seeks views on water guidance Monday 19 October 2009 The Agency is reviewing its natural mineral water, spring water and bottled drinking water guidance. It is seeking suggested amendments, clarifications and additional topics to be included in the updated guidance.

Consumer confidence in FSA's food safety role Friday 16 October 2009 Consumers continue to be confident that the Food Standards Agency is protecting their health with regard to food safety, according to results from the September tracker survey of consumer views on key FSA issues, which has just been published.

Survey of perfluorinated compounds published Thursday 15 October 2009 The Agency has published the results of a UK-wide survey looking for the chemical perfluoroctane sulphonate (PFOS) and similar chemicals in food. The results show that, where it was present, levels are not a concern to people's health.

Advice for caterers on handling eggs safely Thursday 15 October 2009 The Agency has published online advice on the safe use of eggs in catering. The guidance covers handling, storing and cooking eggs, using pasteurised egg, and catering for vulnerable groups. It also gives tips on ‘pooling’ eggs, where caterers break lots of eggs into a bowl and use the mix throughout the day.

Annual report on UK National Control Plan published Wednesday 14 October 2009 The Agency has published the second annual report on progress on implementation of the UK’s National Control Plan (NCP) for January 2007 to March 2011.

FSA News published and online Wednesday 14 October 2009 This month’s FSA News, which has been published and is available online, highlights some of the work that has been going on as part of the latest phase of the Agency’s salt campaign, and includes a summary of research that shows how people are often unaware of where salt is ‘hidden’ in common foods.

Asda withdraws some packs of cream slices Wednesday 14 October 2009 Asda has withdrawn some packs of its 2 Pack Cream Slice, because they have been incorrectly packaged and may contain 2 Pack Custard Slice. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to egg. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Healthier Food Mark scheme seeks 'pilots' Wednesday 14 October 2009 A Government scheme, supported by the Food Standards Agency, aimed at encouraging and recognising best practice among public sector organisations buying and serving healthier, more sustainable food, is recruiting for its pilot phase.

October 2009 Scores on the Doors update Tuesday 13 October 2009 The Agency has published an update on the progress since August 2009 on the development of the national six-tier ‘Scores on the doors’ (SotD) scheme for England Wales and Northern Ireland.

Local authority audit published Tuesday 13 October 2009 The Agency's local authority audit report for Lichfield is now available online.

Mission: Possible! evaluation report published Monday 12 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has published an evaluation report of FSA Mission: Possible!, a UK-wide pilot scheme aimed at teaching food hygiene messages to children aged 8 to 10 (key stage 2).

Secondment opportunity for environmental health professionals Friday 9 October 2009 The Agency is recruiting two qualified and chartered Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs), on secondment from local authorities, to assist with the high-profile project to introduce a national 'Scores on the Doors' (SotD) scheme in England, Wales and Northern Ireland for rating of hygiene standards in food premises.

Bottled water legislation seminar 16 December 2009 Friday 9 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency will be hosting a seminar on bottled water legislation on Wednesday 16 December at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manchester as part of continuing commitment to engage with producers and local authorities to support practical understanding of food law.

Food safety advice for childminders Thursday 8 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has launched a ‘Safer food, better business’ (SFBB) pack especially for childminders. The pack gives simple, straightforward advice on food safety.

Researchers sought into nutrition and older people living alone Thursday 8 October 2009 The Agency is wishing to commission research into nutritional issues affecting older people living alone in Northern Ireland.

No food safety risk from river pollution Thursday 8 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has confirmed that there is no food safety risk from the leak of cyanide into the River Trent discovered on Tuesday 6 October. Based on the most recent test results for samples taken from the river we are satisfied that the levels of cyanide and other pollutants are not a concern for health.

BME dietary interventions workshop proposed Wednesday 7 October 2009 FSA Wales and the Physical Activity and Nutrition Network Wales are proposing to co-host a two-part workshop to disseminate and discuss the outcomes of a review of dietary interventions in black and minority ethnic (BME) groups that was published by FSA Wales earlier this year.

Morrisons withdraws Very Berry Oaties Wednesday 7 October 2009 Morrisons has withdrawn its Very Berry Oaties because they contain milk and soya that are not mentioned on the label. The product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or sensitive to milk or soya. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Social Science Research Committee to hold meeting Tuesday 6 October 2009 Agency’s Social Science Research Committee is set to hold its fourth meeting on 20 October 2009 at Aviation House, London.

FSA publishes survey of campylobacter and salmonella in chicken Tuesday 6 October 2009 The Food Standards Agency has published the findings of a new survey testing for campylobacter and salmonella in chicken on sale in the UK.

New phase of Agency’s salt campaign Tuesday 6 October 2009 The Agency has launched a new phase of its salt campaign, urging consumers to check the salt content of everyday foods and choose the option lower in salt. Since the first phase of the campaign in 2004, the Agency has been working to reduce the average salt intake of UK adults to no more than 6g a day.

Agency salt campaign hits the road Tuesday 6 October 2009 The FSA’s Go Lower road show will be touring the UK during October, persuading shoppers at major supermarkets to taste lower-salt varieties of everyday foods, and giving them tips to help them become more ‘salt savvy’.

Survey reveals lack of salt source knowledge Monday 5 October 2009 More than three quarters of people (77%) are not aware that bread and breakfast cereals are among the daily foods that contribute most salt to our diet, a new Food Standards Agency survey reveals. The survey’s publication marks the launch of the latest stage of the Agency’s work to reduce people’s salt intake.

Check the label by phone Monday 5 October 2009 Owners of web-enabled phones who want to check their shopping’s salt content can access a handy application that has been created for the salt campaign.

Sainsbury's recalls Chicken and Creamy Basil Pasta Thursday 1 October 2009 Sainsbury’s has recalled its Sainsbury's Chicken and Creamy Basil Pasta, because some packs have been wrongly packaged and may contain King Prawn Linguini. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to shellfish. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

EFSA health claims opinion published Thursday 1 October 2009 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has today published its opinion on a wide variety of health claims submitted by food businesses from across the UK and other EU Member States.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Thursday 1 October 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further restaurant producing product lines free of the colours has been added to the list.

Cattle aged over 30 months enter food supply without being tested for BSE Wednesday 30 September 2009 The Agency has been notified that meat from three imported cows aged over 30 months, which were not tested for BSE, has entered the food supply.

Contractor sought to review Agency's branding Wednesday 30 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency is seeking a contractor to review and restructure existing corporate identity and branding for the Food Standards Agency.

Blakemans sausages withdrawn Tuesday 29 September 2009 James T Blakeman and Co. Ltd. has withdrawn some of its sausages because they contains wheat (gluten) and sulphites that are not mentioned on the label. The product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or sensitive to wheat, gluten or sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

ACAF open meeting 23 September 2009 Tuesday 29 September 2009 The Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held its latest open meeting at the Agency's London headquarters on the 23 September 2009.

Footballers kick off healthy eating for schools Monday 28 September 2009 Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar has officially launched a project, in partnership with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), to encourage schoolchildren to eat healthily and live a more balanced lifestyle.

Update on Scores on the Doors Friday 25 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 30 September meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Steering Group.

Some Bernard Matthews Chunky Tikka Turkey withdrawn Thursday 24 September 2009 Farmfoods and Morrisons have withdrawn some Bernard Matthews Chunky Tikka Turkey, because the product contains higher than expected levels of wheat gluten. The product label mentions that the product is 'gluten free', which is incorrect.

Report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for August 2009 Thursday 24 September 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides an update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of the month following any discovery of a breach in controls.

Pesticide Residues Committee annual report published Thursday 24 September 2009 The 2008 annual report of pesticide residues on food in the UK has today been published by the Pesticide Residues Committee (PRC) – an independent committee that advises the Food Standards Agency.

Fraudsters target food businesses Thursday 24 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency is warning food business operators to be aware of fraudsters who are visiting food business premises claiming that they are from the Agency.

Volunteers needed for sweetener study Wednesday 23 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has issued an appeal for volunteers to take part in a new pilot study looking at aspartame. The research is focusing on people who have reported bad reactions to the artificial sweetener, including headaches and upset stomachs.

Chief scientist’s annual report launched Wednesday 23 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency today published the third Annual Report of the Chief Scientist. The report sets out progress in the Agency’s scientific activity over the past year and is being launched tonight at the Royal Society of Chemistry in London.

Trio sentenced in organics scam Tuesday 22 September 2009 Northamptonshire County Council Trading Standards, with the support of the Food Standards Agency, has successfully prosecuted One Foods Limited – the company behind an organic food scam worth more than half a million pounds.

Some Dolmio pasta sauce recalled Tuesday 22 September 2009 Mars Food UK is recalling some of its Dolmio Express Creamy Carbonara Pasta Sauce, because it might contain small pieces of hard plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Food Champion Awards launched Tuesday 22 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency is pleased to announce the launch of the 2010 Food Champion Awards, which are open to all local authorities in England and Wales.

Post-Chernobyl monitoring reports 2008 published Monday 21 September 2009 The Agency has today published three monitoring reports on sheep at farms remaining under post-Chernobyl restrictions in England, Scotland and Wales.

FSA in Scotland seeks contractor to produce floor mats Monday 21 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency in Scotland is seeking a contractor to produce and supply 4,500 eatwell plate floor mats for use in Scottish primary and secondary educational establishments. The eatwell plate is used to get the balance of our diet right. It makes healthy eating easier to understand by showing the types and proportions of foods we need to have a healthy and well balanced diet.

Asda withdraws Chocolate Delights Friday 18 September 2009 Asda has withdrawn its own-brand Chocolate Delights because the product contains soya that is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic to soya. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency’s fish advice takes account of sustainability Thursday 17 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today updated its fish and shellfish advice to help consumers make informed, sustainable choices as part of its commitment to taking sustainability into account in all of its policy making.

FSA stakeholder simplification event - action plan now published Wednesday 16 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has drawn up an action plan to address recommendations from the third annual Simplification Stakeholder Event held in June. Stakeholders wanted to see positive action as a result of this event and, as promised, an action plan has now been published.

Local authority audits published Wednesday 16 September 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Broadland, Hyndburn and Stafford are now available online.

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 16 September 2009 The video and podcast of the September open Board meeting are now available.

GM engagement project chair announced Wednesday 16 September 2009 At today's Agency open Board meeting, Tim Smith, Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency, announced that Professor John Curtice of the University of Strathclyde, is to chair the independent steering group that will advise the Agency on its forthcoming consumer engagement work on genetic modification (GM).

Vacuum packing training goes online Tuesday 15 September 2009 A new online training course about vacuum packing and modified atmosphere packing of food has been developed by the Food Standards Agency.

Advisory committee seeks new member Tuesday 15 September 2009 The Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF), an independent committee that advises the Agency and UK Agriculture Ministers on the safety and use of animal feeds, with particular emphasis on protecting human health, is seeking a new committee member.

Students get guide to safe catering Monday 14 September 2009 Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland (FSANI) has been working with further education colleges across Northern Ireland to include its Safe Catering guide in the teaching content of catering and hospitality courses, so that students are trained in the food safety management principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).

Report examines increase in listeriosis in UK Monday 14 September 2009 The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) has, after public consultation, published a report on increased incidence of listeriosis in the UK.

Stakeholders have a say on Agency performance Friday 11 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency is today publishing the results of an extensive survey of its stakeholders, in which they were asked questions about how they rate the Agency’s overall performance and specific areas of its work.

Agency seeks to fill four senior posts Friday 11 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency is advertising for professionals to fill four senior posts, to help drive the Agency forward during the next five years in line with its Strategic Plan 2010-2015.

'Broad band' boost for Scores on the Doors Thursday 10 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has announced further progress on the development of the national 'Scores on the Doors' scheme for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which will provide consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses.

Whittard of Chelsea withdraws three tea products Wednesday 9 September 2009 Whittard of Chelsea has withdrawn three tea products because they contain macadamia and almond nuts that are not mentioned on the label. If you have an allergy or intolerance to nuts you are advised not to consume these products. The Agency has issued an allergy alert.

Veterinary Residues Committee annual report published Tuesday 8 September 2009 The Veterinary Residues Committee’s (VRC) 2008 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.

Agency launches SFBB teaching resources for colleges Monday 7 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has launched new Safer food, better business (SFBB) teaching resources for catering colleges. The resources, developed in partnership with Northampton Catering College and Highfield.co.uk are intended to promote understanding of SFBB among catering students.

Advisory Committee on Pesticides seeks new members Friday 4 September 2009 The Advisory Committee on Pesticides (ACP) is advertising for three new members, including a lay member, to represent consumers' interests in relation to the use of pesticides.

More food businesses avoiding colours associated with hyperactivity Wednesday 2 September 2009 More food businesses have joined those that have already stopped using the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in children. Among those now producing product lines free of these colours are three manufacturers and a chain of restaurants.

Consultation launched on new BSE regulations Wednesday 2 September 2009 The Food Standards Agency has launched a joint consultation with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) on proposed new BSE regulations. The new regulations will update and replace the 2008 Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (England) Regulations (as amended), taking into account decisions made by the FSA Board concerning the slaughter of cattle aged over 30 months.

Asda withdraws Wiltshire style ham Tuesday 1 September 2009 Asda has withdrawn its Extra Special Wiltshire Style Ham (500g), because the product contains gluten (wheat) that is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or sensitive to wheat or gluten. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert. If you have an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten you are advised not to eat this product.

GACS open meeting 8 September 2009 Friday 28 August 2009 The General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) is issuing an open invitation to its fourth meeting, which will be held in London on 8 September.

Commission report published on hygiene legislation Wednesday 26 August 2009 When new European food hygiene legislation came into affect in January 2006, the European Commission made a commitment itself to provide a report by May 2009 that looked at the experience gained from the implementation of the hygiene package by all interested stakeholders.

Agency warns consumers to avoid certain clay-based drinks Wednesday 26 August 2009 The Food Standards Agency is today warning consumers not to drink certain brands of clay-based products, following test results that show unsafe levels of arsenic and lead. The brands are listed below.

Better Regulation Advisory Group (BRAG) - Agenda and minutes published Tuesday 25 August 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published all the agendas and papers of the Better Regulation Advisory Group.

Company found guilty of novel food breaches update Friday 21 August 2009 The FSA reported yesterday that, on 5 August 2009 at Abertillery Magistrates Court in Wales, Asphalia Food Products Ltd was found guilty with respect to two separate charges of placing a novel food onto the European market in breach of the Novel Food and Novel Food Ingredients Regulations 1997. The FSA has learnt today that the company has taken steps to withdraw the affected food supplements.

Agency warning about drinking Zam Zam water Friday 21 August 2009 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.

Local authority audits published Thursday 20 August 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Barrow, Gedling and Mole Valley are now available online.

Untested bullock enters food supply Thursday 20 August 2009 The Agency has been notified that a bullock aged over 48 months has entered the food supply without having been tested for BSE. However, as specified risk material (SRM) was removed, and it is unlikely that the bullock was infected with BSE, any risk to human health is extremely low.

Veterinary Residues Committee open meeting Thursday 20 August 2009 The Veterinary Residues Committee (VRC) is inviting industry stakeholders and members of the public to its open meeting at 10.30am on Wednesday 14 October at the Mercure Holland House Hotel in Cardiff. The VRC is the independent advisory committee that oversees the UK's residue surveillance of veterinary medicines in food.

Agency warns food business operators about bogus emails Wednesday 19 August 2009 The Agency is warning food business operators about bogus emails that appear to be a financial scam to extort money from companies wishing to export rice to the UK. The emails are using the FSA Scotland name as a basis for the submission of information and demand payment of £650 for a registration fee.

Agency update on Scores on the doors Tuesday 18 August 2009 The Agency has published an update on progress since April 2009 on the development of the national six-tier Scores on the doors (SotD) scheme for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Agency advice on children's lunchboxes Monday 17 August 2009 Following reports in the media today that ham sandwiches should not be included in children's lunchboxes, the Agency has offered clear advice to provide reassurance to parents.

Shutki Raja Chutney Powder to be withdrawn and destroyed Monday 17 August 2009 Shutki Raja Chutney Powder has been produced on unregistered, or possibly unapproved, premises. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action asking local authority food law enforcement officers to make sure the chutney is withdrawn from sale and destroyed.

FSA and Defra GM reports published Thursday 13 August 2009 The Food Matters report published in July 2008 by the Cabinet Office included two parallel action points for the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Defra on genetically modified (GM) food and animal feed.

Retail hygiene guide published Wednesday 12 August 2009 The sixth of a series of guides for the food industry has been published. The retail guide will assist shopkeepers to comply with food hygiene legislation. Produced by the retail trade and other working groups, it sets out recommendations that will help retailers meet the legal obligations to ensure food safety. The guide is recognised by the Food Standards Agency.

Sainsbury's withdraws some beef burgers Wednesday 12 August 2009 Sainsbury’s has withdrawn its Taste the Difference Scotch Beef Burgers with Smoked Jalapeno Chillies (pack of two), because the product contains cheese that is not mentioned in the allergy advice box although it is correctly labelled in the ingredients list. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or intolerant to milk or milk constituents.

5,000 businesses to benefit from food safety grants Monday 10 August 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has awarded grants to help more than 5,000 caterers and food retailers improve food safety. This is the fourth year the FSA has given these grants as part of its ongoing commitment to helping food businesses comply with EU hygiene regulations.

Food route – a new lesson on food Monday 10 August 2009 The Agency has published a new range of resources to enable young people to gain essential food-related skills and knowledge.

Agency emphasises validity of organic review Friday 7 August 2009 Tim Smith, the Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency, has written an open letter to interested parties about the independent organic review. The letter emphasises the validity of the independent study published last week that shows that there are no important differences in the nutrition content of organic food when compared with conventionally produced food.

Latest consumer attitudes tracker survey published Thursday 6 August 2009 The results from the latest tracker survey of consumer views on key Food Standards Agency issues have been published.

Progress report on smokies research Tuesday 4 August 2009 A considerable potential domestic and export market for legal smoked skin on sheep meat, known as smokies, is identified in a report produced for FSA Wales.

Report on local authority use of contractors and consultants published Monday 3 August 2009 The Food Standards Agency has published the report of an audit programme between carried out in 2008 to explore the extent and use of contractors within food law enforcement services in England.

Local authority audits published Monday 3 August 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for East staffordshire and North Lincolnshire are now available online.

Views wanted on front-of-pack labelling Thursday 30 July 2009 The Agency is today launching a consultation on the issues that need to be resolved to produce an integrated approach to front-of-pack labelling.

Integrating the FSA and MHS Thursday 30 July 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced that planning for the formal merger of the FSA and its executive agency, the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS), will start soon, with the operational work of the MHS forming the core of a new FSA Operations Group.

Organic review published Wednesday 29 July 2009 An independent review commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) shows that there are no important differences in the nutrition content, or any additional health benefits, of organic food when compared with conventionally produced food. The focus of the review was the nutritional content of foodstuffs.

Agency launches consultation on reducing saturated fat and added sugar in key foods Tuesday 28 July 2009 The Agency is today launching a consultation on its proposals to introduce voluntary recommendations for food manufacturers for reductions in saturated fat and added sugar and increased availability of smaller single-portion sizes in a number of key foods – biscuits, cakes, pastries, buns, chocolate confectionery and soft drinks.

New members sought for expert novel foods committee Tuesday 28 July 2009 A new Chair and an expert molecular biologist are needed for the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP). The Food Standards Agency intends to appoint in November 2009. The ACNFP is an independent body of experts that advises the FSA on any matters relating to novel foods and novel food processes.

Waitrose recalls peppercorn goats cheese Monday 27 July 2009 Waitrose is recalling Moody's Rosary Pink Peppercorn Goats Cheese 100g as the pink peppercorns have been found to be contaminated with salmonella. The Agency has issued a food alert for information.

99p Stores withdraws some Elgorriaga Chocolate Friday 24 July 2009 99p Stores has withdrawn some Elgorriaga Chocolate con Leche, because the product contains peanuts and almonds, which are not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to nuts. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Scores on the Doors Working Group agenda published Thursday 23 July 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 30 July meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Working Group considering the scope of the scheme and 'start-up' issues for local authorities.

Heinz recalls spaghetti bolognese baby food Wednesday 22 July 2009 Heinz is recalling a batch of Heinz Mum’s Own Spaghetti Bolognese baby food due to the possibility of small pieces of plastic being in it, which could be a choking hazard. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Morrisons withdraws some Frozen Sweet and Sour Battered Chicken Tuesday 21 July 2009 Morrisons has withdrawn some of its own-brand Sweet and Sour Battered Chicken, because there is a problem with the packaging on one batch of Chicken Chow Mein. This means that one date code of the Sweet and Sour Battered Chicken contains the Chicken Chow Mein, which contains sesame and soya, which are not mentioned on the product label.

Who's meeting who? Tuesday 21 July 2009 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.

Who's meeting who Tuesday 21 July 2009 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.

Who's meeting who? Tuesday 21 July 2009 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.

Who's meeting who Tuesday 21 July 2009 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.

Peanut butter and paste contaminated with aflatoxins Monday 20 July 2009 Active brand peanut butter, Active brand groundnut paste and peanut butter made by Jesu Aka Ltd are contaminated with excessively high levels of aflatoxins. The Active brand groundnut paste is made from peanuts (peanuts are also known as groundnuts). The products, which are made in Ghana, and are generally sold in food stores that sell African and or African-Caribbean food.

Kestrel Foods recalls some sesame seed products Monday 20 July 2009 Kestrel Foods Ltd has recalled some Supervalu brand and Centra brand sesame seeds products in Northern Ireland, because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Pine nuts associated with a bitter aftertaste Thursday 16 July 2009 The Agency has received several reports over the last few months of pine nuts that have caused a bitter taste for some people who have eaten them.

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 15 July 2009 The video and podcast of the July open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included discussions on the Review of the FSA’s Response to the Incident Involving Dioxins in Meat, the Annual Report of the Chief Scientist 2008/2009, the first Annual Report of the General Advisory Committee on Science, the Science Review of the FSA, and the FSA’s response to the E.coli Public Inquiry Report.

Process contaminants in retail foods survey Wednesday 15 July 2009 The Agency today published the most recent results of a study, carried out in 2008, looking at the levels of acrylamide, and other chemicals produced as a result of food processing, in a range of UK food products.

Scores on the Doors Steering Group agenda published Tuesday 14 July 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published the agenda and papers for the 21 July meeting of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Steering Group, which is overseeing the development of the national six-tier scores on the doors scheme (and the two-tier scheme in Scotland).

National Reference Laboratory annual report published Monday 13 July 2009 The first annual report of the UK National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for contaminants in food and animal feed has been published. The NRL, which is appointed by the Food Standards Agency, helps to set European Union standards for routine procedures and reliable testing methods in food and feed.

New Food Standards Agency Chair Monday 13 July 2009 The Food Standards Agency today welcomes the announcement of the appointment of Lord Rooker as its new Chair by the Secretary of State for Health.

Agency publishes response to E.coli inquiry report Friday 10 July 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published its response to the report into a fatal E.coli outbreak in Wales in 2005 for discussion by the Agency’s Board.

KTC (Edibles) Ltd withdraws some flour Friday 10 July 2009 KTC (Edibles) Ltd is withdrawing some of its Golden Tropics Cocoyam Fufu Flour and Plantain Fufu Flour, because the products contain sodium bisulphite, which is not clearly mention on the product labels. This makes these products a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Monday 6 July 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further two retailers and five manufacturers producing product lines free of the colours have been added to the list.

Morrison's recalls products that possibly contain blue plastic Monday 6 July 2009 Morrison's has recalled some of its own-label salad tubs, in-store produced pizzas and a bakery product because the products possibly contain pieces of hard, blue plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Views wanted on honeybee venom Thursday 2 July 2009 A New Zealand company has applied to the Food Standards Agency for approval to market the venom from the honeybee as a novel food ingredient. A novel food is a food or food ingredient that does not have a significant history of consumption within the European Union before 15 May 1997.

MHS Annual Report and Accounts 2008/09 Tuesday 30 June 2009 The fourteenth 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.

New Food Standards Agency Scotland Director visits Royal Highland Show Friday 26 June 2009 The new Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS) Director, Professor Charles Milne, FSA Chief Executive Tim Smith and FSA Chair Dame Deirdre Hutton visited the Royal Highland Show on its 125th anniversary.

FSA welcomes Scotland's food and drink policy Friday 26 June 2009 At the Royal Highland Show today, Scottish Government Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead unveiled 'Recipe for Success' – the next steps in Scotland’s first ever national food and drink policy.

Update on charging for official controls Friday 26 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency is to proceed with the introduction of regulations for a new system of calculating charges for official controls in meat plants following agreement by Ministers in all four UK countries.

Sainsbury's has recalled some sesame seeds and seed mix Thursday 25 June 2009 Sainsbury's has recalled its own-brand sesame seed and seed mix products, because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a food Alert for Information.

Local authority audits published Thursday 25 June 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Calderdale, London Borough of Merton, North Dorset and Wolverhampton are now available online.

Sainsbury's withdraws some jelly and trifle Tuesday 23 June 2009 Sainsbury's has withdrawn some of its Heritage Raspberry Jelly and Strawberry Upside Down Trifle, because there is a problem with the packaging on one batch of jelly. This means that one date code of the jelly contains the trifle, which contains milk, egg and wheat gluten, which are not mentioned on the product label.

New food packaging guide published Tuesday 23 June 2009 The Agency has published a new guide aimed at businesses involved in food packaging and at those bodies that enforce the rules governing such businesses.

Aspartame study to begin Monday 22 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency is to begin a new study looking at aspartame. The research will focus on people who have reported bad reactions to the artificial sweetener.

Waitrose recalls some beefburgers Monday 22 June 2009 Waitrose has recalled some of its service counter Aberdeen Angus Beefburgers, because they possibly contain small pieces of hard white plastic. The Agency has issued a Food Alert.

Open meeting of Welsh Food Advisory Committee: 21 July 2009 Friday 19 June 2009 The Welsh Food Advisory Committee of Food Standards Agency Wales is holding an open meeting at the Royal Welsh Showground on 21 July 2009.

Untested bullock enters the food supply Thursday 18 June 2009 The Agency has been notified that meat from a bullock aged over 48 months has entered the food supply without being tested for BSE.

ACAF open meeting 5 June 2009 Thursday 18 June 2009 The Advisory Committee On Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held its latest open meeting in Llandudno on 5 June 2009.

Scientific consultation on iron and health launched Wednesday 17 June 2009 The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) has today issued a scientific consultation on their draft report that reviews the evidence on iron and health.

Local authority audits published Tuesday 16 June 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Basildon and Nottingham are now available online.

Asda withdraws some Pick 'n' Mix Mexican Rice Tuesday 16 June 2009 Asda has withdrawn some of its Pick ‘n’ Mix Mexican Rice because the product packaging has been packed with Mexican Paella, which means the product contains milk, shellfish, fish and wheat gluten. These allergens are not mentioned on the product label, which makes the product a possible health risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of milk, shellfish, fish and wheat gluten.

Campaign launched to tackle rise in over 60s food poisoning Monday 15 June 2009 As Food Safety Week kicks off today, the Agency is warning older people about the life-threatening danger of listeria food poisoning and the simple steps that can be taken to avoid it.

Older people gambling with food safety Monday 15 June 2009 People over the age of 60 are more likely to take risks with 'use by' dates than younger people, according to new research published today by the Food Standards Agency. The research coincides with the launch of an Agency campaign to focus on this age group during Food Safety Week.

Asda withdraws some frozen Spaghetti Bolognaise Monday 15 June 2009 Asda has withdrawn some of its frozen Spaghetti Bolognaise (400g), because some packs of the product may contain Bangers and Mash. This means the product may contain milk and barley, which are not mentioned on the label, making the product a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic to or intolerant of milk or barley. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Eyes down for 'Beat the Bingo Bug!' Monday 15 June 2009 To help stop the rise in food poisoning in the over 60s caused by the food bug listeria, the Food Standards Agency Northern Ireland, safefood and district councils in Northern Ireland have produced a game packed with hygiene messages.

Food Safety Week partners 2009 Monday 15 June 2009 A wide range of organisations have been working together for Food Safety Week by organising local activities and promoting food safety.

Co-op withdraws Truly Irresistible Oatmeal Batch Loaf 800g Friday 12 June 2009 The Agency is making people who are allergic to soya aware that the Co-operative Group Ltd has withdrawn its Truly Irresistible Oatmeal Batch Loaf 800g, with a ‘best before’ date of 15 June, as some of the Co-operative’s Truly Irresistible White Farmhouse Loaf products may have been wrapped in the same packaging.

Public warned not to take certain Hydroxycut supplements Friday 12 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency is warning people not to take certain Hydroxycut food supplements following reports in North America and Finland linking the products to several serious cases of liver damage, including one death. Retailers are advised to withdraw certain Hydroxycut supplements from sale.

Update on scores on the doors Thursday 11 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today published details of the first meetings of the recently established Working Groups of the UK-wide Scores on the Doors Steering Group, which is overseeing the development of the national six-tier scores on the doors scheme (and the two-tier scheme in Scotland).

Melamine update: 10 June 2009 Wednesday 10 June 2009 The Agency has updated the list of products tested in the UK and found to be contaminated with melamine. As the Agency is told about any further products, this page will be updated. Melamine is an industrial chemical that should not be present in food.

Tesco recalls some lamb rogan josh Tuesday 9 June 2009 Tesco has recalled some of its own-brand Lamb Rogan Josh products, because the products contain wheat, soya and sulphites that are not mentioned on the product labels. This means the products are a possible health risk for anyone who is allergic or sensitive to these ingredients. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Shellfish classification for Scotland agreed Monday 8 June 2009 The Agency has agreed the 2009/10 classification areas for shellfish production in Scotland in accordance with European Union legislation. The document listing the classifications came into effect from 1 April 2009.

Food Standards Agency Scotland hosts third teachers panel Friday 5 June 2009 Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS) is top of the class when it comes to hosting teachers’ panels.

New study highlights undeclared ingredients in chicken products Thursday 4 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has carried out an exploratory study into injection powders used to retain water in chicken breast products supplied mainly to the catering trade.

Having a slice of the 'good life' in Northern Ireland Thursday 4 June 2009 Older people in Northern Ireland are set to get a fresh perspective on their diet with the launch of the Good Life Magazine, an exciting new publication that gives nutrition information and advice for over 65s. The magazine includes puzzles, recipes and covers general areas of interest for this age group.

Various brands of frozen pie products recalled Thursday 4 June 2009 Certain brands of frozen pie products have been recalled from stores because they might contain small pieces of white plastic on top of the products.

Asda withdraws some apricot conserve Wednesday 3 June 2009 Asda has withdrawn some of its Extra Special Apricot Conserve, because it contains sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphur dioxide. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Manures guidance published Wednesday 3 June 2009 The Agency has published guidance on managing farm manures to help reduce the number of consumers that get food poisoning from ready-to-eat crops.

Children's dietary survey research needed Tuesday 2 June 2009 The Food Standards Agency is inviting proposals to design and carry out a dietary survey of children living in Scotland. The deadline for receipt of applications is 7 August 2009.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Monday 1 June 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further two manufacturers producing product lines free of the colours have been added to the list.

Agencies issue invitation to Euro funding seminar 2009 Friday 29 May 2009 Individuals with an interest in food research are invited to find out more about funding opportunities and ongoing European research projects at a seminar in Birmingham on Friday 17 July.

Incidents report published Thursday 28 May 2009 The Food Standards Agency today publishes its third Annual Report of Incidents, highlighting the need for all food business operators and enforcement authorities to make reporting these incidents a top priority.

Spice mix contaminated with Sudan I Friday 22 May 2009 The illegal dye Sudan I has been found in Alif Foods ‘Mix Bisar’ spice mix. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action.

Three cattle from same herd as BSE-infected cow have entered food chain Thursday 21 May 2009 The Agency has been informed that meat from three cows reared in the same herd as one that later developed BSE has entered the human food chain. Meat from the cow that had developed BSE did not enter the food chain.

Arsenic in rice research published Thursday 21 May 2009 The Agency has today published results from two studies: arsenic levels in rice drinks and one on cooking methods to reduce arsenic levels in rice. As a result of the rice drink study, the Agency recommends that toddlers and young children should not have rice drinks, often known as rice milk, as a replacement for cows’ milk, breast milk or infant formula.

Review of dietary interventions in black and minority ethnic groups published Thursday 21 May 2009 The Food Standards Agency Wales has published a review of dietary interventions in black and minority ethnic (BME) groups across the UK.

Working effectively with minority ethnic food businesses Thursday 21 May 2009 A new handbook has been launched today, to assist local food safety inspectors in their work with diverse communities. The handbook, ‘Working Effectively with Minority Ethnic Food Businesses’, has been produced as a result of a one day practical training course offered to local authorities to assist them in understanding different religious and cultural practices.

Latest consumer attitudes tracker survey published Wednesday 20 May 2009 The results from the latest tracker wave of consumer views on food issues have been published by the Food Standards Agency.

Some Rotstern Crispy Rounds withdrawn Wednesday 20 May 2009 Tiger Retail Ltd has withdrawn some Rotstern Crispy Rounds confectionery, because the product has been found to contain peanut protein, which is not mentioned on the product label. The makes the product a health risk for individuals who are allergic to peanuts. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Waitrose recalls Oriental Supper For Two with Spring Rolls Tuesday 19 May 2009 Waitrose has recalled its Oriental Supper For Two with Spring Rolls, because it may contain fish, shellfish, milk and peanut, which are not mentioned on the product labelling. The makes the product a possible health risk for individuals who are allergic to fish, shellfish, milk and peanut. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Agency publishes 2012 salt reduction targets Monday 18 May 2009 The Agency has published revised salt reduction targets for 2012, for 80 categories of foods. The new voluntary targets are more challenging than previous targets, to make sure food retailers and manufacturers maintain the momentum in reducing salt levels. The revised targets also reflect the Agency’s long-term commitment to reducing people’s average salt intake to 6g a day.

Monthly report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for April 2009 Friday 15 May 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides a monthly update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of each month.

Training opportunity in evidence gathering and interviewing skills Thursday 14 May 2009 The Agency is pleased to announce a new training opportunity for local authority food law enforcement officers (both environmental health and trading standards officers). The two-day residential course is designed to help delegates enhance their investigative and interview skills in relation to food law enforcement.

New guide for food handlers published Thursday 14 May 2009 People who work around open food while suffering from certain infections (mainly from bacteria and viruses) can contaminate the food or surfaces the food may come into contact with. The Agency has published revised 'Food Handlers: Fitness to Work' guidance to help prevent the spread of infection to other people through food.

Change to FSA advice on botulism in sheep and goats Thursday 14 May 2009 A change to Food Standards Agency (FSA) advice will mean healthy animals from farms with cases of botulism in sheep or goats can enter the food chain.

Online food allergy training available in Welsh Wednesday 13 May 2009 The Food Standards Agency's interactive food allergy online training tool is now available in Welsh. The tool was first launched in English in September 2008.

Marks & Spencer withdraws some paté Wednesday 13 May 2009 Marks & Spencer has withdrawn some of its Chicken Forestier Paté, because the product contains cream, which is not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a health risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of dairy products. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 13 May 2009 The video and podcast of the May open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included a briefing on GM food, and feed and discussions on: a report from the Chair of the MHS Board, BSE official controls for over thirty month (OTM) cattle: moving to a risk-based regime, and front-of-pack nutrition labelling.

Agency sponsors new health series for Sony TV Asia Wednesday 13 May 2009 A new TV series featuring cooking demonstrations, practical tips and ideas on how to become more active will hit our screens this Sunday.

EFSA seeks experts to review its science Wednesday 13 May 2009 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which is the European Union’s scientific risk assessment body on food and feed safety, nutrition, animal welfare and plant protection and health, has launched a call for scientific experts to take part in a working group to review the quality of EFSA’s science.

Healthy eating on the table Tuesday 12 May 2009 Some of the most well-known restaurant chains on the UK high street have agreed to work with the FSA to put healthy eating firmly on the menu for their customers.

National Reference Laboratory for GM food and feed appointed Tuesday 12 May 2009 The Food Standards Agency has appointed LGC as the UK’s National Reference Laboratory for genetically modified (GM) food and feed.

Understanding the sources of campylobacter infection in Scotland Monday 11 May 2009 A report has been published today by the FSA Scotland (FSAS) on research that was led by Dr Ken Forbes, Department of Medical Microbiology at the University of Aberdeen. It investigated the key sources of campylobacter infection in Scotland, which will assist in the development of strategies to reduce the levels of food poisoning caused by this organism.

News on the grapevine Monday 11 May 2009 The Food Standards Agency is today launching an easy way to access wine standards information.

ACAF to hold open meeting in Llandudno Friday 8 May 2009 The next meeting of the Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) will be held in open session at the St George’s Hotel in Llandudno on Friday 5 June 2009, commencing at 9.30am.

COT statement on glucosamine Thursday 7 May 2009 The Committee on Toxicity (COT) has today published its view on whether glucosamine, a popular food supplement, can cause hepatitis.

Agency welcomes publication of final front-of-pack labelling report Wednesday 6 May 2009 The Agency welcomes the final report on front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition signpost labelling, published today by an independent group of experts (the Project Management Panel).

Expert panel presents report on front-of-pack nutrition labelling Wednesday 6 May 2009 The independent group of experts who have led the front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition signpost evaluation project, today, 3 May 2009, published their final report.

Local authority audit published Tuesday 5 May 2009 The Agency's local authority audit report for Liverpool City Council is now available online.

Monthly report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for March 2009 Friday 1 May 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides a monthly update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of each month.

Social marketing and behavioural change course for enforcement officers Friday 1 May 2009 The Agency is pleased to announce that it has developed a new training course and local authority food law enforcement officers are invited to apply to attend.

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Friday 1 May 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children. A further 22 manufacturers producing product lines free of the colours have been added to the list.

Sesame seed products recalled because of salmonella Friday 1 May 2009 Some own-brand sesame seed products sold by Asda, Co-op, Tesco and Waitrose have been recalled because of the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Revised Food Safety Act guide published Wednesday 29 April 2009 The Agency has published revised guidance for food businesses on the Food Safety Act 1990. The guidance is applicable to all types of food business in England, Scotland and Wales.

Food Trac withdraws some Lar brand chicken Tuesday 28 April 2009 Food Trac has withdrawn some Lar brand frozen cooked diced chicken, because it might be undercooked. The affected two batches have been distributed by Lomond Foods. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Sainsbury's withdraws its Strawberry Pencils Tuesday 28 April 2009 Sainsbury's has withdrawn its Strawberry Pencils (75g), because the product contains wheat gluten but a 'suitable for coeliacs' label appears on the product packaging. Coeliacs are people with coeliac disease and are sensitive to gluten. This product might be a health risk for people who are allergic to or intolerant of wheat gluten.

Jolly Good Food recalls more products Tuesday 28 April 2009 The Agency has issued an updated Allergy Alert, because further Jolly Good Food products might contain a number of allergens, which are not mentioned on the product labels. The products might be a risk for people with allergy to peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, cow’s milk or gluten. Anyone with an allergy to peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, cow’s milk or gluten is advised not to eat the products.

Update on publication of nutrition signposting research Monday 27 April 2009 The front-of-pack (FOP) signpost evaluation research is nearing completion, says the independent group of experts who have led the project.

Jolly Good Food recalls some organic puffed rice Friday 24 April 2009 Jolly Good Food has recalled some Organic Puffed Rice because the product might contain nuts, which are not mentioned on the product label. This product might be a health risk for people with a nut allergy. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Local authority audits published Friday 24 April 2009 The Agency's local authority audit reports for Bassetlaw District Council and St Edmundsbury Borough Council are now available online.

Recall of some Nestlé FUNtastic Chocolate Cake Friday 24 April 2009 Memory Lane Cakes Ltd has recalled some Nestlé FUNtastic Chocolate Cake, because the product contains whole egg, which is not mentioned on the ingredient list. This product might be a health risk for egg allergic individuals. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Caterers work hard to improve workers' health Thursday 23 April 2009 Millions of employees are now enjoying healthier meals, thanks to the efforts of 12 of the UK’s leading contract caterers and two of the biggest foodservice suppliers, who have been working with the FSA.

Two members of Welsh Food Advisory Committee have terms of appointment extended Wednesday 22 April 2009 The Director of the Food Standards Agency in Wales, Steve Wearne, has welcomed the extended terms of appointment of two members of the independent Welsh Food Advisory Committee (WFAC).

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 22 April 2009 The video and podcast of the April open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included the Agency's initial response to the E. coli Public Inquiry report and recommendations, an update on modernising the Meat Hygiene Service (MHS), discussions on long-term financial planning in the MHS, and proposed changes to charging arrangements and charging rates for Official Meat Controls.

FSA Board approves meat charging changes Tuesday 21 April 2009 At its open meeting today, the Board of the Food Standards Agency approved changes to the charging system for official controls, known as inspections and audits, in UK meat businesses such as abattoirs and cutting plants.

Allergy advice helps businesses Tuesday 21 April 2009 An evaluation of the Agency's allergy guidance has found that a majority of businesses and local authority food law enforcement officers find it a help in their work. Of those surveyed, all manufacturers and 96% of enforcement officers, who are aware of the FSA's 2006 best practice allergy guidance, found it useful.

Withdrawal of Simply Aqua and Simply Fruity drinks Monday 20 April 2009 On Friday 17 April, the Agency alerted people to A G Barr's withdrawal of Simply Fruity and Simply Aqua water drinks because of reports of a problem with the bottle cap causing a choking hazard. The Agency has now issued a Food Alert for Information.

Some Espuña Chorizo withdrawn from sale Monday 20 April 2009 Certain batches of chorizo made by Espuña have been withdrawn from sale, because of possible contamination with salmonella. The product was sold in a number of shops and butchers, all of which have withdrawn the affected packs from sale and have displayed notices to consumers. Local authorities have been informed and are working with shops to make sure affected packs are removed.

Sainsbury's recalls some frozen pizzas Friday 17 April 2009 Sainsbury's has recalled some of its Frozen Thin & Crispy Vegetable Stonebake Pizza (312g), because small pieces of metal were found within the base of the product. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Tesco withdraws Storck Nimm 2 Candy Friday 17 April 2009 Tesco has withdrawn all Storck Nimm 2 Polish Candy, as the product contains sweetened condensed milk and whey powder that are not mentioned in English on the product label. This product might be a health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents.

FSA commended on use of science Thursday 16 April 2009 The Government Office for Science has today published an independent review of the Food Standards Agency’s science that has applauded the Agency for its practice, use and management of science.

FSA Board meeting 21 April 2009 Wednesday 15 April 2009 The next FSA open Board meeting is being held at the Food Standards Agency’s headquarters: Aviation House, 125 Kingsway, London WC2B 6NH. It will begin at 1pm on Tuesday 21 April 2009 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.

Food Fraud Advisory Unit launched Tuesday 14 April 2009 The Agency today announced the launch of a new advisory resource to support local authorities in their work to tackle food fraud.

Marybake recalls batches of yoghurt coated fruit Thursday 9 April 2009 Marybake has recalled batches of its yoghurt coated fruit, because the products contain whey powder and lactose. However, they are not labelled as being derived from milk. This makes the products a potential health risk for people with a milk allergy. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Mars Food UK Ltd recalls some sauce products Wednesday 8 April 2009 Mars Food UK Ltd has recalled certain batches of sauce products, because they might be contaminated with traces of metal thought to be small pieces of copper wire. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Restaurants and caterers to display calories on menus Monday 6 April 2009 Eighteen major catering companies, including many high street names, are to introduce calorie information on their menus for the first time.

Asda recalls two sizes of its ultra light mayonnaise Friday 3 April 2009 Asda has recalled a batch of its Ultra Light Mayonnaise 500ml and Ultra Light Squeezy Mayonnaise 450ml, due to possible contamination with traces of metal. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

The UK Food Surveillance System - a review of Scottish local authority food sampling in 2007 Wednesday 1 April 2009 The Scottish Food Enforcement Liaison Committee's (SFELC) Research Working Group published a report in March 2009 that provides an overview of food sampling data collected by Scottish local authorities during 2007 and placed on the Agency's central database, the UK Food Surveillance System (FSS).

Update on products free of colours associated with hyperactivity Wednesday 1 April 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children.

Applications invited for SFBB grants Wednesday 1 April 2009 The Agency is inviting applications from local authorities in England for another wave of Safer food, better business (SFBB) grants to help implement SFBB in small catering and retail businesses. The deadline for applications is 22 May 2009.

Batch of Bisto Favourite Gravy Granules recalled Tuesday 31 March 2009 Premier Foods has recalled a specific batch code of Bisto Favourite Gravy Granules due to incorrect allergen labelling information. Because some Bisto Favourite Gravy Granules drums have been incorrectly filled with Turkey Gravy Granules the batch contains milk and egg, which are not declared on the label. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Warning issued about Ayyam Zaman Halawa (Halva) Friday 27 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency is warning people not to eat Ayyam Zaman Halawa (Halva) which may be contaminated with the food poisoning bug salmonella. The presence of salmonella in any ready-to-eat food is unacceptable. The Agency is issuing a Food Alert for Information to local authorities.

What people think about emerging food technology Thursday 26 March 2009 People remain cautious about the emergence of new food technologies according to a review of existing research, published by the Food Standards Agency.

Agency's latest research needs published Thursday 26 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency has announced the research and surveys it is looking to commission.

FSA Board agrees advice to Ministers on nutrient profiling model Wednesday 25 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency Board today agreed its advice to Ministers on the Agency’s nutrient profiling (NP) model.

Lepicol and Natural Health Products recall Miradin and Fortodol supplements Wednesday 25 March 2009 Lepicol Ltd and Natural Health Products have recalled all batch and date codes of food supplements labelled 'Miradin' (in UK mainland) and 'Fortodol' (in Northern Ireland) due to some of these supplements being contaminated with a banned drug, nimesulide.

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 25 March 2009 The video and podcast of the March 2009 open Board meeting are now available. The agenda included discussions on the review of the Agency’s nutrient profiling model and the annual report from the Chair of SFAC and FSA Director Scotland.

UK Wide Scores on the Doors Steering Group: 24 March 2009 Monday 23 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency has published the papers for tomorrow’s first meeting of the Scores on the Doors Steering Group.

Call for new public attitudes research Monday 23 March 2009 The FSA is looking for applicants to carry out an extensive new survey that will provide valuable information on the UK’s attitudes and behaviour towards food issues.

Warning about unsafe food supplement Friday 20 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency is warning people not to take the food supplement Leppin Miradin, also known as Fortodol, following reports of contamination with a banned drug.

FSA Board to recommend advice to Ministers on nutrient profiling model Friday 20 March 2009 At next week’s FSA Board meeting the Agency will make a recommendation to the Board on its nutrient profiling (NP) model. The NP model was developed to help media regulator Ofcom determine which foods would be allowed to be advertised during children’s TV.

Interlink Direct recalls CQ Hotpot Seasoning products Friday 20 March 2009 Interlink Direct Ltd has withdrawn all of its batches of CQ Hotpot Seasoning Spicy and CQ Hotpot Seasoning Seafood sauces because the products contain peanut, which is not mentioned on the labels. These products are, therefore, a possible risk to people who are allergic to peanuts.

Damasgate Wholesale recalls sesame seed paste halva Friday 20 March 2009 Damasgate Wholesale has recalled some batches of Ayyam Zaman Halawa (sesame seed paste halva) due to the presence of salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Report published following inquiry into 2005 outbreak of E.coli in Wales Thursday 19 March 2009 The report of the E.coli Public Inquiry, established to investigate the outbreak of E.coli O157 in Wales in 2005, has been published today.

Agency helps farmers prevent lead poisoning Tuesday 17 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency has produced a leaflet for farmers, giving advice to help them protect their livestock, business and the UK’s food from lead poisoning. Cases of lead poisoning on farms increase in the spring when animals are turned out into the fields.

Active brand peanut butter contaminated with excess levels of aflatoxins Tuesday 17 March 2009 Active brand peanut butter has been found to be contaminated with excess levels of aflatoxins. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Action advising local authorities that if any of these products are found during routine inspections, local authority food law enforcement officers should ensure the products are withdrawn from sale and destroyed.

Morrisons recalls Chunky Vegetable Curry Tuesday 17 March 2009 Wm Morrison Supermarkets has recalled all its cans of own-brand Chunky Vegetable Curry (410g), because the product contains wheat gluten, celery and mustard, which are not mentioned on the label. Therefore, this product is a possible risk to people who are allergic or intolerant to gluten, celery or mustard.

ACAF open meeting 4 March 2009 Monday 16 March 2009 The Advisory Committee On Animal Feedingstuffs (ACAF) held an open meeting in London, at Aviation House, on 4 March 2009.

Launch of strategic plan consultation Monday 16 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency wants your views on its strategy for the next five years. We are consulting on our five-year Strategic Plan for the period 2010 to 2015.

Social Science tender opportunity Friday 13 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency is inviting tenders for Establishing Framework Agreements with Providers of Omnibus Surveys.

Monthly report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for February 2009 Thursday 12 March 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides a monthly update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of each month.

Dounreay restrictions to stay in place Wednesday 11 March 2009 Restrictions on seafood coming from an area near Dounreay nuclear site will remain in place, following a Food Standards Agency review.

Morrisons recalls some chunky vegetable soup Wednesday 11 March 2009 Morrisons has recalled some of its own-brand Chunky Vegetable Soup (330g), because Chicken and Vegetable Soup has been packed into Chunky Vegetable Soup packs. This means the product contains gluten, which is not declared on the label, and so the product could be a health risk for people allergic to or intolerant of gluten, or allergic to barley. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Food Standards Agency Scotland wins communicators in business award Tuesday 10 March 2009 FSA Scotland (FSAS) is delighted to receive this award for its Royal Highland Show stand in the Best Live Communications Event category.

Castle Chocolates withdraws some chocolate Tuesday 10 March 2009 Castle Chocolates has withdrawn some of its 50g milk chocolate bars, because the product contains soya lecithin as an ingredient, which is not mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk people allergic to soya. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Deadline approaching for postgrad applications Tuesday 10 March 2009 The Agency is reminding would-be applicants that the closing date for applying for its postgraduate research training scholarships is 31 March 2009.

Coffee shop and sandwich chains serve up healthier eating commitments Friday 6 March 2009 Seven of the UK's largest coffee and sandwich shop chains have joined the growing number of companies working with the Agency to make healthier eating commitments.

Monthly report of specified risk material and other BSE control breaches for January 2009 Wednesday 4 March 2009 The following report from the Food Standards Agency provides a monthly update on specified risk material (SRM) finds and related issues. These reports are posted on the Agency’s website normally during the second week of each month.

Carcass of cow aged over 30 months exported without test for BSE Tuesday 3 March 2009 The Agency has been notified that the carcass of a cow aged 34 months and 16 days has been exported without having been tested for BSE. At the time the cow was slaughtered, BSE testing was mandatory for cattle slaughtered for welfare reasons at over 24 months of age.

Leaflet to help reduce nicarbazin in British poultry Tuesday 3 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency, British Poultry Council, National Farmers’ Union and Veterinary Medicines Directorate have produced a leaflet to help farm owners, their managers and workers reduce nicarbazin residues in chicken through better feed storage and distribution management systems. Nicarbazin is a medicated feed additive used to treat a debilitating poultry disease called coccidiosis.

The High Court ruling on Sovio Wine Tuesday 3 March 2009 The Food Standards Agency welcomes yesterday’s High Court judgement that confirmed the Agency acted lawfully when in September 2007 it ordered stocks of Sovio Wine to be held at a warehouse. This Movement Control Notice meant that the wine products could not be sold.

Recipe for Success Monday 2 March 2009 TV celebrity Phil Vickery will display his culinary skills at the Recipe for Success event being hosted by FSA Scotland, on 10 March.

More companies join voluntary ban on colours associated with hyperactivity Monday 2 March 2009 The Agency has updated its list of product ranges from food manufacturers, caterers and retailers that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children.

Bottled water legislation seminar 30 March 2009 Monday 2 March 2009 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 a seminar on bottled water legislation on 30 March at The Belgrave Centre in Nottingham.

Unilever withdraws some ice cream Friday 27 February 2009 Unilever is withdrawing some Ben and Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie Low Fat Ice Cream (500ml) in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, because the product is in Dutch packaging. This means the ingredients list does not appear in English, which makes the product a possible health risk for non-Dutch speakers who are sensitive to egg, milk, soya or gluten.

Grants for hygiene and healthy eating initiatives Friday 27 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency has today announced the launch of the 2009/10 grant scheme for local food hygiene and healthy eating initiatives.

Update on Hebrew National soup and beans recall Friday 27 February 2009 Certain date codes of Hebrew National Continental Barley Soup, Hebrew National Continental Lentil Soup and Hebrew National Beans in Tomato may contain celery, soya and mustard, which are not declared on the label. This makes the products a potential health risk for people who are allergic to these allergens. The Agency has updated its previous allegy alert to clarify the ownership of this brand.

Sainsbury's withdraws some breaded ham Friday 27 February 2009 Sainsbury's has withdrawn some of its Taste the Difference British Yorkshire Breaded Ham (140g), because the product contains egg and gluten (wheat), which is not mentioned on the product label. This means the product is a possible risk to health for anyone allergic to egg and/or gluten (wheat).

Stobarts (Bradford) Ltd withdraws Ready to Eat Sausage Rolls Friday 27 February 2009 Stobarts (Bradford) Ltd is withdrawing a batch of its Ready to Eat Sausage Rolls because the product contains sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label. Sulphur dioxide, which is used as a preservative, makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

Dawnfresh Seafoods recalls batch of scampi Friday 27 February 2009 Dawnfresh Seafoods has recalled a batch of its Frozen Kintyre Breaded Scampi (235g), because pieces of glass have been found in a small number of the packets. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Bounce Snack Foods protein balls recall update Friday 27 February 2009 This is an update to the Food Alert for Information dated 18 February about a recall of certain date codes of Bounce Premium Protein Balls, because of the possible presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. Bounce Snack Foods has extended the recall to include all date codes up to and including 2 November 2009 of its Premium Protein Balls.

FSA described as 'model regulator' by independent campaigning group Thursday 26 February 2009 The Agency's commitment to putting the consumer first has been recognised in an assessment by campaigning organisation, Consumer Focus. The consumer group looked at six regulators that were set up in the interest of consumers, specifically in markets where people depend on essential goods and services, such as food.

Vegetarian World recalls some of its Hebrew National Soups and Beans in Tomato Wednesday 25 February 2009 Vegetarian World is recalling some of its Hebrew National Soups and Beans in Tomato because the products may contain celery, soya and mustard, which is not mentioned on the label. This makes these products a possible risk for people who are allergic to these allergens. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

TRS Wholesale Co Ltd withdraws some golden sultana raisins Monday 23 February 2009 TRS Wholesale Co Ltd is withdrawing some of its golden sultana raisins because the product contains sulphur dioxide, which is not mentioned on the label. Sulphur dioxide, which is used as a preservative, makes the product a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites.

Iceland recalls cocktail sausage rolls Friday 20 February 2009 Iceland has recalled some of its cocktail sausage rolls because some packs may contain Cheese and Onion Rolls instead of Cocktail Sausage Rolls. This means the product could be a possible health risk for people with an allergy or intolerance to celery, gluten (wheat), milk, mustard and/or sulphites. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Mini survey provides update on consumers' views Thursday 19 February 2009 The Agency has published the results of its latest mini survey, which is conducted on a quarterly basis to monitor changes in consumer attitudes of key food issues and trust in the FSA.

Bounce Snack Foods recalls protein balls Wednesday 18 February 2009 Bounce Snack Foods (UK) Ltd has recalled certain date codes of their Premium Protein Balls, due to the possible presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. Salmonella is a bacterium that causes food poisoning. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Agency seeks views on food contaminant regulations Tuesday 17 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency has extended the length of its consultation on the draft Contaminants in Food Regulations by a further eight weeks to take into account the new provisions of a Commission Regulation coming into force on 2 March 2009 and applying from 1 July 2009.

GACS open meeting 25 February 2009 Tuesday 17 February 2009 The General Advisory Committee on Science (GACS) is issuing an open invitation to its third meeting, which will be held in London on 25 February 2009.

FSA Wales to hold second co-hosted seminar for Food Businesses Tuesday 17 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency Wales, in association with the Food Industry Centre, at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, will be holding a second seminar for Welsh food businesses from the bakery sector. The seminar will be held on 4 March at the Agency's Cardiff office.

Official controls charging meeting rescheduled Tuesday 17 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency Wales has rescheduled its stakeholder meeting to discuss the proposals to revise the charging arrangements for official controls in approved meat premises following the postponement of an earlier meeting due to adverse weather conditions.

Agency seeks views on nutrition research Monday 16 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency is currently carrying out a strategic review of its nutrition research portfolio and has launched a public consultation, seeking views on the future direction of this work. The consultation responses will be used by an external panel of experts, set up to undertake the review, to inform recommendations.

Rakusen’s Ltd recalls Chocolate Chip Cookies Monday 16 February 2009 Some chocolate chip cookies distributed by Rakusen's have been found to contain milk protein, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product could be a health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert. Customers with an allergy or intolerance to milk or milk constituents are advised not to eat this product.

Restructuring of the Agency's Food Safety Group Monday 16 February 2009 At last week's open Board meeting, FSA Chief Scientist and Director of Food Safety, Andrew Wadge, spoke about the recent restructuring of the Food Safety Group. This organisational change brings together work on aspects of food safety that was previously spread across the Agency.

New Director of FSA Scotland Monday 16 February 2009 Professor Charles Milne has been appointed Director at Food Standards Agency Scotland (FSAS), as successor to the current Director, Dr George Paterson, CBE, who is due to retire in June.

FSAS consultation - proposed revision of charging arrangements Wednesday 11 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency Scotland launched a consultation exercise on the above subject on 18 December 2008 and this will run until 25 March 2009.

Stakeholder meeting to discuss proposed revision of charging arrangements Wednesday 11 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency Scotland is offering industry and any other interested parties in Scotland a chance to have their say on proposed changes to the charging arrangements and charging levels for official controls in approved meat premises.

FSA Board meeting video online Wednesday 11 February 2009 The video and podcast of yesterday's open Board meeting are now available. The agenda includes discussions on delivery of safe food and healthy eating through partnerships and an update on UK local authority food law enforcement.

Food incident prevention workshops Tuesday 10 February 2009 The Food Standards Agency is holding two one-day workshops on food incident prevention and management for small to medium sized businesses. The workshops are a result of four successful workshops held in 2008 in different parts of England.

Clif Bar & Company recalls some of its Clif and Luna energy bars Tuesday 10 February 2009 Clif Bar & Company (based in Berkeley, USA) has recalled some of its Clif Crunchy Peanut Butter flavour energy bar (68g) and Luna Nutz Over Chocolate flavour energy bar (48g), because of the possible presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Saturated fat campaign launched to tackle UK’s biggest killer Tuesday 10 February 2009 The Agency has launched a public health campaign to raise awareness of the health risks of eating too much saturated fat. People in the UK eat on average 20% more saturated fat than the recommended maximum.

Agency provides tips on how to cut sat fat and reduce risk of heart disease Tuesday 10 February 2009 The Agency has produced a selection of tips, offering people simple and practical steps to help cut their intake of saturated fat. The tips are featured in press advertising for the Agency’s new awareness campaign about saturated fat, as well as on its consumer advice website, eatwell.gov.uk.

Confusion over date labels on food Tuesday 10 February 2009 The results of an Agency-commissioned survey of public attitudes towards food issues show that many people are confused over date labels, which could mean that some are taking risks by eating food that is past its ‘use by’ safety date.

Views wanted on astaxanthin extract Monday 9 February 2009 An Indian company has applied to the Food Standards Agency for approval to market its astaxanthin-rich extract obtained from the algae Haematococcus pluvialis as a novel food supplement. A novel food is a food or food ingredient that does not have a significant history of consumption within the European Union before 15 May 1997.

Dioxin found in milk Thursday 5 February 2009 Milk from two dairy farms in Northern Ireland has been stopped from entering the food chain following test results that show dioxin levels above legal limits, the Food Standards Agency said today.

Pubs sign up to healthy eating Thursday 5 February 2009 Six of the UK's leading pub restaurant companies have today announced a commitment to join a growing number of catering companies who are working with the Agency to help people eat more healthily outside the home.

Cow aged over 30 months enters food supply without being tested for BSE Thursday 5 February 2009 The Agency has been notified that a heifer aged two days over thirty months has entered the food supply without having been tested for BSE.

Sweet Luxuries withdraws Sugar Lessss Belgian Plain Chocolate Thursday 5 February 2009 Some chocolate distributed by Sweet Luxuries has been found to contain milk protein, which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product could be a health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert. Anyone with an allergy to, or intolerance of, milk or milk constituents is advised not to eat this product.

Some British Bakeries' crumpets found to contain milk protein Wednesday 4 February 2009 Some crumpets produced by British Bakeries and packed for a number of different retailers and brands have been found to contain traces of milk protein (casein) that is not declared on the product labels. This makes the products a possible health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents.

Companies join voluntary ban on colours associated with hyperactivity Monday 2 February 2009 The Agency has published a first list of product ranges from food manufacturers, caterers and retailers that do not contain the six food colours associated with possible hyperactivity in young children.

US peanut company extends recall Friday 30 January 2009 The Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) has updated its recall of peanut products in the wake of the salmonella outbreak in the United States. The Food Standards Agency is advising consumers not to eat recalled batches of certain American peanut butter products.

Some Bovetti dark chocolate contains milk protein Friday 30 January 2009 Some Bovetti Dark Chocolate with Cocoa Beans (100g) has been found to contain casein (milk protein) that has not been mentioned on the product label. This makes the product a possible health risk for people who are allergic to, or intolerant of, milk or milk constituents. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Tesco recalls its Oriental Special Fried Rice Friday 30 January 2009 Tesco has recalled some of its own-brand Oriental Special Fried Rice, because an incorrect 'use by' date is on the label. The incorrect use by date given was 31 February 2009 and it should have been 31 January 2009. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Levels of metals and other elements from the 2006 Total Diet Study Wednesday 28 January 2009 A survey into the amount of metals and other elements in our food has found that most are the same or lower than the previous survey.

LACORS publish new study into contents of doner kebabs in UK Tuesday 27 January 2009 LACORS, the Local Authority Coordinators of Regulatory Services, has today published a new study into the content of doner kebabs in the UK.

Update on applying EU Regulation on Feed and Food Controls Monday 26 January 2009 The Agency has today published an update on the progress since January 2008 on the measures being taken to apply EU Regulation 882/2004 on official controls in the UK.

Agency seeks nominee to Veterinary Products Committee Monday 26 January 2009 The Veterinary Products Committee (VPC) is an independent body that advises Ministers on all issues relating to the control of veterinary medicines. Members provide scientific advice to the Government on the safety, quality and efficacy of veterinary medicines.

Lärabar recalls all peanut butter snack bars Saturday 24 January 2009 The Agency has issued an updated Food Alert for Information concerning the recall of some Lärabar Peanut Butter Cookie flavour snack bars because of the possible presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. On a precautionary basis, the recall has been extended to all Lärabar Peanut Butter Cookie flavour snack bars.

Agency and ESRC call for dietary research Friday 23 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) are seeking applications to carry out research that will explore how people make choices about the food they eat.

New rules for 'gluten free' foods Thursday 22 January 2009 New food labelling and composition rules aimed at helping people who are intolerant to gluten have been published.

Views wanted on new sweetener and prebiotic Wednesday 21 January 2009 A Canadian company has applied to the Food Standards Agency for approval to market its isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO) as a novel food ingredient. A novel food is a food or food ingredient that does not have a significant history of consumption within the European Union before 15 May 1997.

Lärabar recalls some peanut butter snack bars Wednesday 21 January 2009 Lärabar has recalled some of its own-brand Peanut Butter Cookie flavoured snack bar (51g) and Peanut Butter Cookie flavoured mini snack bar (21g), because of the possible presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. The Agency has issued a Food Alert for Information.

Consumers warned not to eat certain peanut butter products from the USA Tuesday 20 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency is advising consumers not to eat recalled batches of certain American peanut butter products, following a salmonella outbreak in the United States.

Contractor sought for events management Tuesday 20 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency is looking to award one or more contracts for providing events management services.

Postgraduate scholarships launched for 2009 Tuesday 20 January 2009 The Agency has announced the areas in which it is to fund postgraduate research scholarships to start next October. Applications this year are invited in the areas of food hygiene and the social science of food.

Stakeholder meeting arranged to discuss the proposals to revise the charging arrangements Friday 16 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency in Wales has arranged a stakeholder meeting to discuss the proposals to revise the charging arrangements for official controls in approved meat premises.

Agency warns against Fangocur mineral drink Friday 16 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is today warning consumers not to drink Fangocur mineral supplement drink following test results that show dangerous levels of arsenic.

First steps in providing nutrition information for consumers eating out Thursday 15 January 2009 The Agency today launched the first phase of activity aimed at introducing nutrition information in a range of catering outlets to provide consumers with more consistent information when they are eating out. The first step will be the introduction of calorie labelling.

Agency supports Health for Kids awards Wednesday 14 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency is delighted to be supporting the second Health for Kids awards, a unique reward scheme for projects that help children stay healthy.

Revised National Control Plan published Wednesday 14 January 2009 The Agency and the four agriculture/rural affairs departments in the UK have recently reviewed the UK's National Control Plan for the period January 2007 to March 2011, and a revised version has been published.

Lakenham Creamery Ltd withdraws some Zabaglione Ice Cream Tuesday 13 January 2009 Lakenham Creamery Ltd has withdrawn some Zabaglione Ice Cream, because the product contains peanut oil that is not mentioned on the product label, resulting in incorrect allergen information. The product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts. The Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.

Views wanted on Touchi extract Monday 12 January 2009 A Japanese company applied to the Agency in July 2008 for approval to market its Touchi extract from fermented black beans as a novel food ingredient. The Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP), an independent committee, has formulated a draft positive opinion on this ingredient.

Recall of Chilli and Lemon Roasted Pistachios from Julian Graves Friday 9 January 2009 Julian Graves is starting a recall of a batch of chilli and lemon roasted pistachios following tests showing levels of aflatoxins 600 times higher than the legal limit.

Local authority audits published Friday 9 January 2009 The FSA's audit reports for Cannock Chase District Council and Cherwell District Council have been published today, as part of its audit programme focusing on local authority arrangements for food premises database management, food premises inspections and internal monitoring. The reports for Oadby and Wigston Borough Council and South Bucks District Council were published yesterday, 8 January.

Invitation to novel foods open event Thursday 8 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency's Advisory Committee on Novel Food and Novel Food Processes is holding an open event on novel foods in London on Wednesday 18 February, 2009. Anyone can attend, including members of the public.

Research tender opportunities Wednesday 7 January 2009 The Agency is advertising two research requirements. One is for a cardio-metabolic health and carbohydrate systematic review; the second is for the application of eatwell plate advice to weekly food intake.

Waitrose recalls some chicken curry with pilau rice Wednesday 7 January 2009 Waitrose has recalled some of its Low Saturated Fat Chicken Tikka Masala with Pilau Rice (400g), because some packs may contain Chicken Korma with Pilau Rice, which contains nuts (cashew nut purée) that is not mentioned on the label. The product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to nuts.

Agency consulting on sustainable fish advice Tuesday 6 January 2009 The Agency has today launched a public consultation on proposals to review its advice to consumers on eating fish in the light of sustainability issues. The Agency is committed to taking wider sustainability issues into account in its advice on nutrition and food safety.

New slaughterhouse requirement for calves Tuesday 6 January 2009 The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced the implementation of new regulations that require slaughterhouses to ask for information about calves received for slaughter.

Climate change and food research needed Monday 5 January 2009 The Agency is advertising for researchers to carry out a systematic review of the effect of climate change on food and the Agency's remit.

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