Food sampling

We undertake sampling within food premises throughout the district. A sampling programme is drawn up every year giving details of the type of samples to be taken that year.

A food sample may be a finished product, e.g. a meat pie, a whole meal or purely a food ingredient.

What is a food sample?

To ensure that food and drink intended for human consumption is safe, food samples are purchased anonymously. They can also be taken with the owner's consent by an authorised officer. These samples will be analysed by the Public Analyst or by the Public Health England laboratory.

Types of sampling

Formal Samples

Food samples may be collected during a routine inspection or at a later date. This is if there are concerns about the quality and safety of food sold at a location. The samples can be taken by officers either as a customer or after identifying themselves.

If the results are unsatisfactory, the focus is on making sure the business takes appropriate action to prevent health risks. The collection of formal samples follows The Food Safety (Sampling and Qualifications) Regulations 1990.

Informal Samples

Food samples are collected to monitor the quality and safety of the food in the district. This helps with surveillance efforts. Special projects may be organised locally or nationally for this purpose.

If a sample result is unsatisfactory, it triggers an investigation to determine the possible cause. In some cases, a formal re-sample may be conducted as part of the investigation process.

Reporting back

All sampling activities are reported to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) on an annual basis.

To request further information on our sampling policy please contact us using the information below.​