DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer:
Councils must respond promptly to food alerts and incidents to protect public health. This includes acting on notifications from the Food Standards Agency, investigating affected businesses, removing unsafe food from sale, and ensuring corrective actions are taken. Councils also provide advice to businesses and the public, maintain records of actions taken, and cooperate with national agencies during food safety emergencies.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Environmental health
Duty type
Public impact
Social determinant of health
Health and social care
Emerging policy and legislation
1
Bodies with shared interest
Food Standards Scotland
Public Health Scotland (PHS)
Standards and frameworks
1