CFA and the Food Safety Research Network (FSRN) are developing a practical toolkit for sampling, testing, reporting, and actions to demonstrate due diligence in managing Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC) risks in ready-to-eat foods. Four interlinked workstreams have been established: Sampling (co-chaired by Karin Goodburn): refine guidance, assess existing data, identify gaps, and define data management when STEC is detected. Testing: catalogue current tests, engage with UKAS/HSE on certification, update terminology, provide interpretation tools, and outline an “ideal” test toolkit with R&D priorities. Reporting: standardise laboratory reports, define reporting triggers, establish pathways, and improve data-sharing between regulators, producers, and industry. […]

CFA members redistribute millions of surplus food items, including chilled ready meals, sandwiches, desserts, pies and soups. Since CFA began to collect data in 2017 to the end of 2024 more than 63.5m (63,534,964) meals (measured in 450g units) have been redistributed by Members. In 2024 alone 12.7 million meals went to those in need through partners including Company Shop and FareShare. While this figure was up by 300,000 on the previous year, this was a smaller increase than in the previous year. Dr Rachel Hackett, CFA’s Sustainability Consultant explains why fewer meals redistributed is good news for sustainability: “Whilst […]