The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is holding a free ‘Small Food Business Start-Up Seminar’ in Galway to assist those working in small food businesses or those who are thinking of setting up a food business. The FSAI states that despite the economic downturn, there has been a 5% increase in the number of food businesses established in Ireland over the last five years, currently standing at over 46,000.

The free half-day seminar will bring together experts from the FSAI and the Health Service Executive to provide assistance for new businesses and provide advice on compliance with food safety legislation. The event takes place from 08:00am to 12:15pm on May 28 at Galway Bay Hotel, The Promenade, Salthill, Co. Galway.

Experts on the day will explore everything from registering a new food business, food product development, food safety training requirements, setting up a food safety management system, labelling regulations, traceability, the food recall process, inspections and the information resources available from the FSAI. There will be a number of Q&A sessions throughout the morning and experts will be available after the event closes for further discussion.

According to Prof. Alan Reilly, Chief Executive, FSAI the Small Food Business Start-up Seminar is a one-stop-shop for anyone who is thinking about starting a small food business and / or who has recently gone into business in the food sector.

“Our aim is to reduce the barriers faced by food entrepreneurs seeking to enter the food sector and make it easier to comply with all the various requirements and food regulations. This seminar is one of a number of supports we provide on an ongoing basis. We have a free Advice Line and a dedicated online resource to assist business people in Galway and the surrounding areas thinking of setting up a new food outlet or business,” he says.

Booking is advised and further information is available at www.fsai.ie/events