Inspections relief for home bakers

Concerns were raised when The Food Standards Agency told The Gazette charges of up to £300 for home bakers were among a raft of options being discussed.

Charities said they could be “significantly affected” if changes were brought in and called for proper consultation.

But now, the FSA has clarified the situation, stating: “The FSA is clear that the regulations which apply to small food businesses are not applicable to one off or occasional community events like charity cake sales. Such events are not required to register with local authorities and there are no plans to charge charities for holding them.”

Len Curtis, chairman of Donna’s Dream House, a Blackpool charity which provides free holiday experiences for youngsters with life-threatening conditions said:

“Thank goodness some one has seen sense before implementing policies that would be unmanageable and impossible to implement due to the mainly add-hoc way fund-raisers decide to offer this service to charities.

“I agree with other charities that proper food hygiene guidance should be included with fund raising information given out.”

Stella Humphreys of Cancer Help Preston, said: “This is great news, it’s pleasing to hear that common sense has prevailed. As mentioned in my previous comments, it would have had a detrimental effect on fund-raising.”