If you are considering starting a business or taking over an existing one, it is essential to register with our Food and Safety team at least 28 days before you begin trading.
This registration is a legal requirement for food businesses and any premises where food is handled or stored, as they must be registered with or formally approved by the local authority.
You can find valuable information about starting a food business on the Food Standards Agency and GOV.UK websites. These resources will help you understand the physical and practical requirements necessary for running a food business, as well as the relevant food hygiene legislation.
What counts as a food business and when do I need to register?
A food business is any enterprise that involves the preparation, handling, storage, distribution, or sale of food to the public.
Examples of types of food businesses
- Restaurants and cafes, these include establishments where food is prepared and served to customers.
- Takeaways and mobile units including including temporary or permanent food trucks and market stalls
- Home-based food businesses including individuals preparing food at home for sale.
- Online food sellers such as businesses selling food through websites or social media.
- Food manufacturers and processors including companies involved in producing and packaging food products.
- Food distributors and wholesalers businesses that supply food to retailers or other businesses.
- Childminders and care providers, if they provide food as part of their service
- Caterers preparing food for events or functions
- Temporary food stalls
You must register every premises where food is stored, prepared, distributed or sold, including:
- your home
- mobile or temporary premises such as stalls and vans
What if I take over an existing food business?
You still have to register.
How much does it cost?
Registration is free.
Food business registration
You must register your food business at least 28 days before you start trading. This applies whether you are starting a new business or taking over an existing one. Registration is free. Once you have registered your business you may start to trade
To register a food business complete the online registration form
You may also need premises approval
If you make, prepare or handle food that comes from animals, for example meat or dairy products, other than for direct sale to the consumer, your premises may need to be approved by us before you can undertake the activity.
What if I don't register?
You may be fined, imprisoned for up to 2 years, or both if you run a food business without registering.
What happens next?
Some details about your business will appear on our public register of food businesses and will also be provided to Trading Standards at KCC, who deal with food labelling and composition matters.
View the Food Standards Agency: Starting up page.