CFA launches UK’s first industry-wide E. coli intelligence database

29 June, 2026

Chilled Food Association has launched the UK’s first industry-wide E. coli intelligence database for fresh produce and irrigation water, giving growers and produce users access to independent, industry-owned, benchmarked microbiological data at unprecedented scale. The system brings together more than 100,000 datapoints collected since 2024 from irrigation water used on Red Tractor Category 1 crops, alongside pre- and post-wash produce testing. It is the largest and most comprehensive dataset of its kind in the UK, focused on generic E. coli as a key indicator of hygiene and irrigation water quality. CFA Director General Karin Goodburn said: “The industry has lacked […]

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CFA Newsletter May 2026

22 May, 2026

In this issue (click HERE to view it in full):   CFA and technical CFA-led Listeria guidance supported by FSA and FSS tops 1,500 downloads CFA on the road – spreading the word on Listeria guidance Listeria guidance media coverage Generic E. coli online database launched Red Tractor TAC: Fresh produce safety update Sewage sludge: strengthening the rules CFA website: growing reach SPS agreement negotiations: update BRCGS Issue 10: CFA at the table CFA joins UK Packaging Pact as founding signatory CFA and IFST: Special Interest Group involvement Supporting the circular economy: ENABLER project New CFA member: Kettle Produce Chilled […]

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SPS agreement negotiations: update

12 May, 2026

CFA continues to engage closely with Government on preparations for a potential SPS Agreement between the UK and the EU with the aim of easing post-Brexit trade restrictions. Karin Goodburn established and chairs the SPS Certification Working Group (www.chilledfood.org/brexit), which comprises some 30 trade and professional organisations and meets weekly with senior officials across relevant departments and agencies. A summary of legislative divergences requiring attention in the streamlining of trade has been shared with Government officials and with the Lords EU Affairs and Commons EFRA Committees. Concerns focus on the lack of clarity of precisely what legislation will be within […]

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