Hosted by: Kelvin Wood, Certification Body Manager for Safe to Trade at Shield Safety Group
Joined by: Alex Kyriakides, Chair of the Technical Standards Committee at Safe to Trade and independent food safety consultant, and Rob Easton, Head of Environmental Health at Shield Safety and seasoned food business operator.
Overview
This webinar explores how food businesses can maintain high safety standards during the festive rush. Highlighting the role of the Technical Standards Committee, seasonal operational challenges, and the importance of planning, governance, and hygiene, especially in the face of norovirus outbreaks.
Safe, Festive, and Ready: Delivering Christmas with Confidence
How can hospitality businesses prepare for and thrive during the busy Christmas period while staying compliant with Safe to Trade standards? From governance to gravy, this in-depth conversation covers everything you need to know to ensure a safe and successful festive season.
Key Insights from the Webinar
Viewers will gain valuable knowledge on:
- Governance & Standards: The Technical Standards Committee ensures Safe to Trade remains current, credible, and responsive to industry needs. It oversees updates to the standard, including food fraud and donation protocols.
- Planning for Peak: The “Five Ps” of Christmas planning: Product, Property, Process, People, and Paperwork. These help businesses prepare for seasonal changes in menu, staffing, and operations.
- Menu Claims & Allergen Management: Food businesses must verify regional and quality claims and update allergen matrices for seasonal menus. Miscommunication can lead to serious risks.
- Hygiene & Norovirus: Norovirus remains a major winter threat, what you can do to help protect your team, your customers and your business.
- Cooking & Cross-Contamination: Increased volume and larger food items require careful planning. Safe to Trade standards emphasise proper defrosting, temperature checks, and avoiding shortcuts.
Expert Perspective
Alex Kyriakides stressed that governance is the backbone of Safe to Trade. The scheme’s credibility relies on rigorous oversight, stakeholder engagement, and auditor competency.
Rob Easton emphasized that delivering a safe and smooth Christmas is the best marketing for next year’s bookings
Who Should Watch
This webinar is essential for:
- Food Business Operators: Learn how to manage festive operations safely and efficiently.
- Hospitality Managers: Discover practical tips for staffing, menu planning, and compliance.
- Environmental Health Practitioners: Understand how Safe to Trade supports consistent standards and governance.
- Marketing Teams (Hoispitality): See how food safety and menu claims impact brand reputation.
- Consumers & Regulators: Gain insight into how businesses ensure safety during peak periods.
Watch the Full Webinar
Watch the full webinar to hear expert advice and real-world insights on managing food safety during the festive season. It’s a must-see for anyone involved in hospitality operations or food safety governance.
