Why do we sample?
Sampling is carried out to ensure that the food and water that
you consume is safe, in accordance with the relevant
legislation.
There are two main types of sampling;
1. Informal sampling
2. Formal sampling
The majority of sampling which we carry out is informal
sampling. This is mainly a surveillance exercise where samples are
either purchased anonymously or by agreement with the proprietor.
No formal action can be taken if the informal samples are found to
be incorrect. Where informal sampling reveals a problem, this can
be followed up either by giving advice to the proprietor and
re-sampling informally or by sampling formally. Formal sampling can
result in legal action being taken.
We choose what foods to sample mainly by following a
sampling programme set out by LACORS ( Local
Authorities Coordinating Body on Food and Trading Standards) , the
East of England Health Protection Agency (HPA), and Essex food
Group. However we also sample foods produced in the
Braintree District.