general information and Setting up a Food Business

Setting up a food business can be a challenge.  There are many aspects to consider ranging from financing it to how you will keep pests out.  To assist, the Food Standards Agency has produced a booklet (available at the bottom of this page) providing some initial guidance which you might find helpful.  They also have a useful webpage which provides guidance for those starting out running a business and information on registering with us.

You should also check with Melton Borough Council Planning department that the premises you intend to use have any necessary planning permission.

Commercial waste collections are not provided by Melton Borough Council.  You will therefore need to arrange for a commercial contractor to take away any waste from your business.  Waste storage must be secure and deter pests.

You will also need to ensure that you and your staff have appropriate levels of training.  We recommend that people update their food hygiene training every three years.  There are many providers of food hygiene training available though you should confirm with them that they provide training accredited with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.  Melton Borough Council is an accredited training provider and for details of  the latest food hygiene courses please check our training courses section.

Before you begin you must also have undertaken a food hazard analysis and have this in a documented format. For further information please see the link below.  

Further information for businesses:

• Registering your Food Business and licensing
• Business Link information on setting up a food business (external site)
• Hazard analysis and ‘Safer Food Better Business’
• Labelling, weights and measures and food quality
• Inspections and food law
• Inspection frequency and whether inspections are pre-announced
• Temperature control and the law
• Pest control
• Food hygiene training
• Producing foods of animal origin – Approved premises
• Imported foods
• Childminders
• Food Hygiene Rating Scheme

Information booklets

The Food Standards Agency has produced guidance for food businesses, enforcement bodies and the general public.  The following booklets are available to download here:

•  Food Hygiene: A Guide for Business
• Food Law Inspections and Your Business – what to expect.
• Setting up a Food business

The Food Standards Agency website also has leaflets in languages other than English.