FAST food vans in the Fens are to be regularly inspected and be expected to pass an MoT type scheme under new council proposals. Fenland District Council says the implementation of a mobile traders certificate will be the equivalent of an MOT to ensure

FAST food vans in the Fens are to be regularly inspected and be expected to pass an "MoT type scheme" under new council proposals.

Fenland District Council says the implementation of a mobile traders certificate will be the equivalent of an MOT to ensure they are kept up to standard.

Mike Gleadow, the council's food and safety officer, says the scheme is one of many to improve or change the council implements safer food for consumers.

"Improvements in food safety will not be achieved through enforcement alone," he says in a report to Cabinet.

"It is recognised that improving knowledge and awareness in businesses is very important as well. The council also has a strong customer led ethos and will ensure this is applied through the food safety service as well."

Other initiatives planned include individual coaching sessions for caterers to ensure they adopt best practice and working with the Fenland Food Forum to help and advice.

He also says the council is to promote a local award scheme for catering premises where food safety standards are good or excellent. This will, he believes, reward well-run catering businesses which will help consumers "make informed choices of premises they use".

Mr Gleadow says Fenland Council is responsible for 520 restaurants and caterers, 232 retailers and an assortment of factories and distributors in food.