10 April 2016
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is holding a free ‘Small Food Business Start-Up Seminar’ in Cork to assist those working in small food businesses or those who are thinking of setting up a food business. The one-stop morning event will bring together a range of experts to explore the requirements businesses need to meet in order to get started and comply with all relevant food safety legislation.
The event takes place from 8am to 1pm on Thursday, 14th April at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Tivoli, Cork. Booking is advised and further information is available at www.fsai.ie/events or by emailing businessstartup@fsai.ie.
Experts on the day will provide assistance and advice on everything from registering and running a small food business; what to expect from an inspection; food product development; food safety training requirements; setting up a food safety management system; labelling legislation; product recalls; obligations around traceability; and the numerous information resources available from the FSAI.
There will also be two case studies by locally based companies sharing their personal insights into setting up and running a small food business. There will be a number of Q&A sessions throughout the morning and all experts will be available after the event closes for further discussion. Experts from a number of other State agencies will also be available, offering advice on areas such as training, mentoring, health and safety, financial supports and product development.
Commenting in advance of the event, Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI said that the seminar is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is thinking about starting a small food business or who has recently gone into business in the food sector.
“There is a clear appetite for information amongst people wishing to pursue new food businesses, which is why we are combining all the relevant topics into a morning event covering all you need to know about setting up a food business,” says Dr Byrne. “Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for people to get all the food safety information and advice they need. This is an import part of setting up a new food business as business owners and managers are ultimately responsible for ensuring the food they serve is safe.”
“We also provide information for those already in business and who may wish to expand their business or want to keep up-to-date with changes in food legislation. This seminar is one of a number of free supports we provide on an ongoing basis to food entrepreneurs. We have a free Advice Line service at info@fsai.ie and a dedicated online resource www.fsai.ie/food_businesses.html to assist anyone who is thinking of setting up a new food business.”
