What Is Food Safety Week?
Food Safety Week is an annual campaign organised by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to raise awareness of food safety issues across the UK. It typically takes place in June and focuses on a different theme each year, with the goal of encouraging consumers and businesses to improve their food safety practices. For food businesses, it is an opportunity to review, refresh, and reinforce your food safety standards.
Expected Themes for 2025
While the FSA announces the official theme closer to the date, the following areas are expected to feature prominently in 2025:
Food Safety Culture
Building a genuine food safety culture — where every team member takes ownership of food safety — has been a growing focus for the FSA. Expect this theme to emphasise leadership commitment, staff engagement, and moving beyond tick-box compliance towards genuine behavioural change.
Transparency and Trust
Consumers increasingly want to know about the food they eat — where it comes from, how it is prepared, and what allergens it contains. Transparency in allergen information, ingredient sourcing, and food safety practices builds customer trust and loyalty.
Digital Tools and Innovation
The adoption of digital food safety management tools — from automated temperature monitoring to electronic record keeping — is transforming how businesses manage compliance. Food Safety Week 2025 is likely to highlight these innovations and encourage their adoption.
Allergen Awareness
With Natasha’s Law now well established, the focus is shifting to consistent compliance and reducing allergen incidents. For a complete overview of your obligations, see our Natasha’s Law guide.
How Your Business Can Participate
Food Safety Week is an excellent catalyst for action. Here are five ways your business can participate meaningfully:
1. Conduct an Internal Audit
Walk through your premises with fresh eyes. Check documentation, temperatures, cleanliness, and staff practices. Take our free food safety risk assessment to identify areas for improvement.
2. Hold a Team Training Session
Use Food Safety Week as a prompt to deliver a refresher training session. Cover key topics such as temperature control, handwashing, allergen management, and your HACCP procedures. Our training service can provide tailored sessions for your team.
3. Review Your HACCP Plan
Check that your HACCP plan is up to date and reflects your current menu, suppliers, and processes. Our HACCP service can help you review and update your documentation.
4. Engage Your Customers
Share your commitment to food safety on social media. Display your food hygiene rating prominently. If you have a rating of 5, celebrate it — customers value transparency and high standards.
5. Schedule a Deep Clean
Food Safety Week is a perfect time to schedule a thorough deep clean of your kitchen and storage areas. Address areas that may be overlooked during routine cleaning, such as behind equipment, extraction canopies, and storage rooms.
The Business Case for Participation
Participating in Food Safety Week is not just about compliance — it is good business. Businesses with high food hygiene ratings attract more customers, particularly on delivery platforms where ratings are prominently displayed. Demonstrating a proactive approach to food safety also strengthens your position with EHOs, who recognise and reward businesses that invest in continuous improvement. Our consulting service can help you develop a year-round food safety improvement programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Food Safety Week 2025?
The exact dates for Food Safety Week 2025 will be confirmed by the FSA. It typically takes place in mid-June. Check the FSA website or follow Kitchen Tonic for updates as the date approaches.
Is participation in Food Safety Week compulsory?
No, participation is voluntary. However, using Food Safety Week as a prompt to review and improve your food safety practices is strongly recommended. It demonstrates a proactive approach that EHOs value.
Where can I find FSA resources for Food Safety Week?
The FSA publishes resources, toolkits, and campaign materials on their website in the weeks leading up to Food Safety Week. Local authorities may also provide additional support and resources for businesses in their area.
Written by Carren Amoli, BSc (Hons), RSPH Registered
