UK FSA backs new feed regulation qualification route to strengthen feed controls

UK – The U.K. Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced its support for a new qualification pathway to enhance expertise in animal feed regulation and official feed controls. 

Developed in collaboration with the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), the Professional Competency in Feed Qualification will offer comprehensive training on legal requirements throughout the feed supply chain, from primary production to distribution.

The course, designed to address the growing need for qualified officers, is a six-month program that combines online learning, training days, and assessments. 

Open to candidates from England, Scotland, and Wales, the qualification ensures participants gain in-depth knowledge of animal and public health regulations, essential for maintaining high feed safety standards.

“This vocational qualification will help boost the numbers of trained officers available to carry out official feed controls,” said Karen McCloskey, head of delivery standards at the FSA. 

She emphasised the FSA’s commitment to supporting innovative and inclusive entry routes into food and feed regulation, ensuring a steady supply of skilled professionals to uphold safety and regulatory compliance in the industry.

This CTSI Feed competency will provide learners with knowledge and a key understanding of the application of feed law, which is enforced by regulatory bodies across the UK.

They will learn about the legal requirements for feed at all stages, including primary production, manufacture, and distribution, alongside the framework for the official control regulations governing animal health and public health.

The competence for this professional qualification is the demonstration of knowledge and understanding of the role of the Food Standards Agency and Local Authorities in the delivery of feed law policy and enforcement, the framework of legislation designed to protect animal health and public health concerning feed law, an understanding of the legislation and codes of practice relating to feed law and the recognition of characteristics and features associated with the traceability of feed.

This online course consists of 5 training days, and assessment days, including a multiple-choice online assessment, an oral assessment, and a written submission, which are required within three months of attending the course contact days.

Prior to the contact days, approximately three months of independent learning are required, which are supported by resources available via the online portal.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.