There are a number of exemptions from the approval process which are briefly explained below:

• If there is an element of retail involved in your business and you intend to supply any other retailers or caterers you may be exempt from approval if the supply of the food of animal origin is marginalised and localised and restricted.
• Marginal - a small part of the establishments business meaning up to one quarter of the business in terms of food.
• Localised - sale within the supplying establishments own county plus the greater of either the neighbouring county or counties or 30 miles from the boundary of the supplying establishments county.
• Restricted - concerning only certain types of products being made or establishments being supplied.

Should your food business be exempt from the approval process then you will still need to register your food business with Winchester City Council. Details of how to register your food business can be found on our food registration guidance page

To apply for approval you should download and complete an online application form. This will need to be returned to this office together with the necessary documentation. Once your application has been received an officer will be in contact with you and arrange to visit you at your premises. The officer will look in depth at your process and documentation and discuss any work you need to do in order to comply with the regulations. If your business has achieved the required standards approval will be granted and you will be issued with a unique approval number which makes up part of the of the identification mark that you will need to apply to your products.

Alternatively you can apply on line using the Governments Business Link website. 

If you are unsure whether your intended business activity will require approval you should contact the Health Protection Team on 01962 840 097 to discuss.