Hosted by: Kelvin Wood, Certification Body Manager for Safe to Trade at Shield Safety Group
Joined by: John Barnes, Chair of the Stakeholder Engagement Group at Safe to Trade and former Head of Local Delivery at the Food Standards Agency.
Overview
This introductory webinar launched the Safe to Trade series, explaining the origins, purpose, and benefits of the scheme. Exploring how Safe to Trade supports food businesses, regulators, and consumers by offering a robust, transparent, and accredited food safety standard.
Raising the Bar: Why Safe to Trade Matters
Safe to Trade is a voluntary third-party assurance scheme designed to help food businesses demonstrate compliance, improve safety standards, and build consumer trust. It complements the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme by offering more frequent, comprehensive checks and covering areas like allergens, food fraud, and front-of-house hygiene.
Key Insights from the Webinar
Viewers will gain valuable knowledge on:
-
- Industry Challenges: Post-pandemic pressures, staffing shortages, and rising consumer expectations have made food safety more complex than ever.
- Scheme Origins: Safe to Trade began during the COVID-19 pandemic to reassure consumers and support businesses. It evolved into a food safety standard with annual audits and real-time feedback.
- Comprehensive Standard: The scheme covers food hygiene, allergens, labelling, and front-of-house safety. It’s governed by a Technical Standards Committee and an Independent Governance Board.
- Verified Compliance: Businesses must meet all legal requirements and close non-conformances with evidence before being certified.
- Regulator Support: Safe to Trade helps regulators target resources more effectively and complements modernised enforcement strategies.
Expert Perspective
John Barnes emphasises that Safe to Trade is not a replacement for the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme but a complementary tool that offers greater transparency, consistency, and consumer confidence. He highlighted its role in modernising regulatory delivery and supporting well-intentioned businesses
Who Should Watch
This webinar is essential for:
- Food Business Operators: Learn how to demonstrate compliance and build trust.
- Environmental Health Practitioners: Discover how Safe to Trade supports targeted inspections.
- Trading Standards Professionals: See how food standards are integrated into a unified audit.
- Hospitality Managers: See how the scheme enhances operational standards and protects reputation.
- Consumers: Understand how the scheme ensures safer dining experiences.
Watch the Full Webinar
To understand how Safe to Trade is transforming food safety assurance, watch the full webinar. It’s a must-watch for anyone committed to safer, smarter hospitality.
