Register a food business
How to register a food business
All premises used as a food business for storing, selling, distributing or preparing food are required by law to be registered with us including:
- market stalls
- delivery vehicles and
- other moveable structures.
Generally, anyone who wants to operate a food business must register with the Council at least 28 days before they intend to start up.
There is no charge for registering a food business and the registration does not need to be periodically renewed.
The Food and Safety team at East Lothian Council keep a record of each food business registered. The register lists those food premises which require to be inspected to make sure that they meet the legal requirements.
Child minders
Child minders operating within domestic premises are required to complete a specific food registration form.
Food businesses that process food products of animal origin
Food businesses that process food products of animal originand intend to supply other food businesses are not required to register their business as outlined above.
They are however, required to complete an application form for Approval of a Food Business Establishment Subject to Approval under Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004 and submit detailed drawings of their premises, along with other documents, details of which are given in the guidance notes with the application.
Application forms
- Food Business registration form (Word)
- Food Business registration form (PDF)
- Application for approval of a food business (Word)
- Application for approval of a food business (PDF)
- Child minders operating within domestic premises (Word)
- Child minders operating within domestic premises (PDF)
- Application for Certificate under Section 50 in relation to Food Hygiene (Word)
- Application for Certificate under Section 50 in relation to Food Hygiene (PDF)
Food Hygiene Information System
The Food Hygiene Information Scheme is designed to provide 'at a glance' information about the outcome of local authority food hygiene inspections. The scheme provides businesses with a certificate for display at their premises.
A 'Pass' certificate confirms that a food business has been inspected by their local authority and has met the required legal standards.