Appealing Food Safety Inspections Decisions in the UK
Local Authority Complaints Procedure
Every decision made by a food inspector can be appealed. According to the Food Standards Agency:
- Every local authority must have a formal procedure to handle complaints about its service.
- If you disagree with an inspector's action, contact the head of environmental health or trading standards services at your local authority.
- If unresolved, escalate the issue to your local councillor.
Further Appeal Options
If dissatisfied with the local authority's complaints process, you can:
- Contact your local government or public services ombudsman:
- England: Local Government Ombudsman
- Scotland: Public Services Ombudsman
- Wales: Public Services Ombudsman
- Northern Ireland: Ombudsman
- Appeal to the magistrates’ court or a Sheriff in Scotland regarding:
- Hygiene improvement notices
- Remedial notices
- Hygiene emergency prohibition orders
- A ban on premises, processes, or equipment can only be lifted by the court.
Court Procedures for Hygiene Notices and Seizures
Important court procedures to note:
- Inspectors must seek court confirmation for hygiene emergency prohibition notices within a specified period.
- Food seized by an inspector can only be condemned as unfit for human consumption by a Justice of the Peace or a Sheriff.
- You have the right to attend the court hearing, and if decisions are deemed improper, you may be entitled to compensation.
Recommended Products For You
BSI First Aid Kit Small Catering Refill
£10.83 + VAT
Bsi First Aid Kit Premier Small Catering
£13.97 + VAT
HeartSine 350P Internal Package - Special Offer
£875.00 + VAT