Your food business may require approval if you handle or process products of animal origin as a significant part of your operations.
Approval is different from registration.
If you need to register, please see our Register a Food Business page.
When approval is required
You may need approval if your business:
- uses products of animal origin such as meat, fish, egg, dairy products, and processed products of animal origin
- supplies other food businesses regularly (even within your ownership)
If your business is a slaughterhouse or meat cutting plant, it must be approved by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Apply for approved food premises
Legal requirements
It is a criminal offence to begin trading without conditional or full approval. You must not start any food business activity until approval has been granted.
The approval process includes:
- a detailed application
- a site inspection
- compliance with hygiene and structural standards
FSA: Applying for local authority approval of a food establishment
The law around food premises approval is complex. We strongly recommend seeking advice before submitting an application to avoid unnecessary delays or costs.
Need help?
For advice or to discuss your application email:
HBC.CommercialServicesTeam@hartlepool.gov.uk