Apply for approved food premises

Applying for approval

Some types of food businesses need to be approved by us as well as being registered. These can include premises where meat is processed or prepared, manufacturers of meat, dairy, egg or fish products, some wholesalers, and cold stores. There are some limited exemptions.  If you think approval might apply to you, please contact us for advice.

Apply online for your Food Premises Approval (opens new window)

Along with your completed application form we need information on -

• a detailed plan of the premises
• your arrangements for waste collection and disposal
• cleaning and maintenance
• water supply testing
• product testing
• pest control
• staff training / staff health monitoring
• record keeping including details of your HACCP system.

Approval process

Once we have your completed form we will arrange to visit your business. You can't operate until we are satisfied that you have met all of the requirements. We then give you a unique approval number which makes up part of the identification mark that must be put on your products and documentation. It means your products can be traced back to your business from anywhere.

Changes to the business

If the business changes hands, or is altered in any way, or you want to make additional products, you must let us know. You might need further approval.

Further information 

For more information see the guidelines for Approved Food Establishments (opens new window) on the Food Standards Agency website.