The General Manager of Dishwashers Direct has been discussing the possible changes that could affect the food industry up to 2020. This mainly focuses on how food standards are monitored in this digital age.
The Food Standard Agency has said they are committed to change the way food businesses are being monitored by 2020. Initially there will be a boosted focus on the consumer having the chance to make choices that are based on fact and not fabrication. That seems slightly obvious, but essentially it means that the FSA will be making sure that food being sold is exactly what it is claiming to be.
Going out for dinner is also a growing trend, with a year on year growth occurring over the past decade in the number of breakfasts, lunches and dinners being consumed in the cafes and restaurants around the UK. Horizon, the food industry consultancy has predicted that the UK food service sector will continue to grow and will be valued at £56.3 billion by 2019. This is an estimated growth of £10 billion. The increase is expected to be boosted mainly by pizza delivery outlets as well as managed branded pubs and restaurants and coffee shops. The increase is good news for the industry however it could lead to an increase in pressure on the staff and could lead to a slackening in food safety.
Food businesses will be able to vouch for the origins of their food, as in an increasingly popular market, competition on food sourcing will be able to give establishments a competitive edge. Consumers could be a challenge, with everyone being able to access and post on review sites, meaning that standards need to be high constantly. As of last year, large food businesses have seen the new sentencing guides published which will significantly increase the fines handed out for food safety blunders. There will also be stricter sentencing on the way for smaller businesses as the FSA focuses on manufacturers, suppliers and retailers who mislead customers.
