The top priority of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) is keeping the consumer safe, an audience at Harper Adams University College heard this week.
There was standing room only when FSA chairman Lord Rooker explained the workings of the agency to staff, students and guests in the West Midlands Regional Food Academy (RFA).
Rooker said: “Health ministers have no control over the day-to-day operation and regulation of the FSA. They cannot order us to do anything. They can ask us to do work for them, but in terms of direction and control, it’s not ministers doing it. And that is key to the FSA’s success. We can put the consumer first, be open and transparent and, above all, only make decisions based on evidence.
“Our top priority is food safety. There are 500 deaths from food-based diseases every year and a lot of that is caused by what people do in their own homes. Manufacturers can do everything to make their products safe, but when they get home, into the kitchen, what people then do is amazing."
He added: “There is still this issue, this tragic loss of life, and we have a strategic plan to try to sort that out. We are here to help and to regulate. Above all, our raison d’être is not the government, not ministers, but the consumer.”
Following a tour of the academy, Lord Rooker said: “The Regional Food Academy is excellent. It really is tip top and I am very pleased I have had the opportunity to see it. The facilities are first class and it’s clear that it’s already doing a lot of good work.”
The RFA provides technical and business support to food and drink businesses.
It has been a busy time for Rooker, who recently visited science base Campden BRI and heard about a series of high-profile FSA-funded projects on food analysis, labelling and food safety.
He toured the processing plant and consumer studies areas while discussing product development and reformulation, as well as sensory analysis. While visiting the laboratories he saw work on food allergen management, hygiene and foodborne pathogens, as well as discussing HACCP, legislation and compliance.
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