What we do
We take several steps to protect
food safety in Newham.
Food complaints
Each year the Food Safety Unit receives
approximately 650 food complaints. These include complaints about
foreign bodies in food, food poisoning and general complaints about
food premises. All complaints are investigated on a priority basis.
Action may be taken against food manufacturers and retailers where
the law is broken.
If you have a complaint contact the food safety team on 020 8430
2000.
Food sampling
The Food Safety Unit carries out a varied programme of food
sampling. It is often mistakes in the preparation, handling and
storage of food, which lead to human illness. Each year
approximately 250 microbiological samples are taken looking for
pathogenic bacteria in food plus 200 compositional samples to check
what food is composed of and that it matches the label.
Food hygiene training
Food hygiene law specifies that all food handlers must be trained
to a level which is 'commensurate' with their responsibilities. The
Food Safety Unit organises regular food hygiene training courses
throughout the year for food handlers and food premises managers.
One-day courses are run at Newham Town Hall. Lunch is provided and
successful candidates receive a food hygiene certificate at the end
of the course.
Find out more here.
Health and safety in food premises
The Food Safety Unit is responsible for
carrying out Health and Safety inspections in food premises.
Officers will check to see that conditions are safe for both
employees and members of the public. Any accidents that occur on
these premises that are reported to the authority are investigated.
Businesses are under an obligation to report accidents and
incidents in the workplace.
Contact us
If you have any queries about this page or any matter that relates
to food safety or food businesses in Newham please call 020 8430
2000 and ask for the Food Safety Team or alternatively e-mail
food@newham.gov.uk.