Starting and running a food business

All food businesses must comply with food safety legislation. This ensures that your food is safe to eat, not harmful to health and not unfit for human consumption. Food must also meet the nature, substance and quality customers expect. Serving safe, good quality food protects your business reputation.

All food businesses in Northern Ireland must be registered with their local council. Registered businesses are inspected to ensure they are meeting food safety requirements. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) protects public health and consumer interests in relation to food safety, and provides advice and guidance to food businesses. 

This guide explains how to start a food business in Northern Ireland. It tells you how to register your food business and comply with food safety regulations.

It also outlines your legal obligations in relation to food allergies, intolerances and labelling. Finally, it describes why and how to make healthy menu choices for food businesses.