What is the maximum fine for food hygiene offences?
If you are facing a potential food offence fine and prosecution, it’s important to note that a magistrates’ court can impose a fine of up to 20,000 for each offence, depending on such section of the law has been breached. This means that the food safety offences potential fine can mount up if you are accused of several breaches of food safety laws. However, it’s not just a fine that can be handed out; the court can also impose a prison sentence of up to two years on the responsible person(s).
The consequences of being prosecuted for food hygiene or safety offences can be very serious. If you’re potentially facing enforcement action, taking expert legal advice as soon as possible can make a significant difference to the final outcome of your case.
Who can be prosecuted for poor food hygiene or safety?
Restaurants, takeaways and food shops are all subject to following the legislation laid out in the Food Safety Act 1990. If your establishment is found to have committed food safety or hygiene offences and the local authority are looking to prosecute, the owner or proprietor of the business is the person held responsible and the individual (or individuals) who can be prosecuted for breaching the law.
If you have been accused of something which is an offence under the Food Safety Act 1990, it’s vital that you seek specialist legal advice as soon as possible.
As an experienced food industry law firm, along with our expertise across the board in legal services for businesses, we can offer support if you’re concerned with potential prosecution for food-related offences. Get in touch for more information by calling 0161 696 6250.