Local food businesses are being reminded that they have a legal duty to register with Fenland District Council.

With few exemptions, this includes people who operate from domestic premises, mobile units and those that trade via the internet and social media such as Facebook.

Food businesses must also advise the council of any significant changes to their operation. These include changes to the operator, name, address and food handling/processing activities.

The council has a programme of business support for new and existing companies and welcomes enquiries about compliance.

Registered businesses can also benefit from securing a rating under the National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (NFHRS) which more consumers are using the rating scheme when choosing where to buy food.

Registration is free and simple. Forms can be downloaded from www.fenland.gov.uk/article/8760.

Food businesses have the chance to improve their food safety management standards at a day-long training course on February 25.

The course, run by Fenland District Council’s environmental health team, covers current legislation and all aspects of keeping food safe to eat. It costs £64 per person, including lunch, or £99 for businesses that send two delegates.

Successful delegates are awarded a nationally recognised certificate by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.

To book places or get details of other environmental health training courses, call Dawn Sadler on 01354 654321 or email dsadler@fenland.gov.uk.