FIRST PAYMENT DEADLINE PASSES FOR CUC PAYMENTS
Wednesday 4th September marked the 30-day deadline for paying the first Common User Charge (CUC) invoices for imports entering Great…
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100 Years of Frozen
This year as an industry we are celebrating a huge historic milestone – 100 years of the frozen food industry.
Back in 1924 a man named Clarence Birdseye revolutionised food production, packaging and food distribution for the world for the next century and beyond. Whilst out fishing in Newfoundland, Clarence observed that when fish were caught and brought out of the freezing waters and placed on the ice, the combination of the temperature and exposure to the elements froze the fish almost instantly. Then, when it came to eating the fish once thawed, to his amazement they were as firm and fresh as if they had just been caught.
What made this method of freezing unique, whilst maintaining the freshness and flavour , was the speed of the freeze – ‘flash freezing’,
That is when Clarence Birdseye set about inventing and patenting his ‘Quick Freeze Machine’, Step-by-step, he invented the processes that would one day become standard practice across the world.
Celebrating our industry
In 2024 we take the opportunity to celebrate the past 100 years and the invention which created the huge frozen industry that it is today. We want to use this milestone to celebrate, educate and engage the industry on everything we have achieved, whilst looking to the future and what the next 100 years holds.
As part of our celebrations across the year, we will be reaching out and speaking to our members about the evolution of the industry over the decades. How technology has evolved and what predictions do we have for the future.
We aim to look at a cross section of the industry from a range of producers, wholesalers, retailers and foodservice and push this out across all media platforms. We want to utilise this huge milestone to raise the profile of our industry and celebrate all that is frozen.
Get Involved
Get involved by downloading the 100 years of frozen logo and adding it to all your marketing communications across the year including:
- Email signatures
- Digital adverts and banners
- Social graphics
If you would like to get involved in our campaign and support with article and PR please contact sarahcollison@bfff.co.uk
Download the logo here
Foot and Mouth Disease in Germany – Defra Imports update 16 January 2025
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FREE WEBINAR FOR BFFF MEMBERS – HOW LONG SHOULD HEALTH & SAFETY RECORDS BE KEPT?
This webinar looks at the type of health and safety records that any organisation should keep and why, and the form in which records should be kept.
Please find below details of a FREE webinar which Croner are hosting on 29th January.
This webinar will help you to:
- Understand why it is important to keep health and safety records,
- Identify the types of records that should be kept, such as statutory, non-statutory,
- Clarify the format in which the records should be kept and for how long,
- Understand how keeping and reviewing the records can contribute to the continuous improvement of health and safety management.
To register for Record keeping – what to keep and how to keep it
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 11:00am, see below link:
https://pages.croner.co.uk/WEB-29-01-2025_3746_Registration-SGU.html
For more information on health, safety and fire related topics, as a BFFF member, Simon Brentnall is available to offer help, guidance and support. For further information, contact simon.brentnall@bfff.co.uk.
BRAKES SERVES UP SUCCESS AT THE CASH & CARRY MANAGEMENT AWARDS
Brakes, the UK’s leading foodservice supplier, has enjoyed spectacular success at the Cash & Carry Management Chefs’ Own Brand Awards, scooping a massive 22 awards, including the much sought-after Star of the Show for its Portico Pan Ready Cornish Sole.
The company, which won around half of the categories available, took home 18 category awards as well as three Best of the Best awards for its Sysco Classic Mighty Pea Croquettes, Sysco Classic Roasted Mediterranean Vegetable Medley and Sysco Simply Plant Based Veg & Harissa Chickpea Tart, along with the Star of the Show.
Paul Nieduszynski, Chief Executive of Sysco GB, said: “Winning so many awards highlights the depth of our new product development and how hard we are working to drive innovation across the sector.
“Our product development teams have done a fantastic job creating products that support customers in developing standout menus which deliver quality dining experiences.”
BIDFRESH REINFORCES ESG COMMITMENT WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Specialist fresh produce supplier, Bidfresh has published its brand new sustainability report, highlighting the significant steps the wholesaler has achieved in 2024 and its goals towards a more sustainable future.
With 70% of consumers saying that sustainability is an important factor when deciding which out-of-home venue to visit[1], selecting suppliers and ingredients that prioritise sustainable practices will be key for operators, especially for local and fresh food.
Titled, ‘Growing Greener’, Bidfresh’s new sustainability report delves into what Campbell Brothers, Direct Seafoods and R. Noone & Son their meat, fish and produce divisions, have achieved as a responsible fresh ingredient supplier.
Externally verified and assured by independent development and testing company, Lucideon, the report also maps out each of the businesses’ accreditations, credentials and the support available for customers.
The new report also showcases the positive impact Bidfresh and its brands have had on its employees, local communities and customers, from training and charity work, to improving and maintaining health and wellbeing.
Valeria Potsinok, Sustainability Manager for Bidfresh said: “This report marks an important milestone for Bidfresh and I am delighted that we have taken the first step in our journey towards a more sustainable future.
“We recognise that achieving meaningful impact takes time, effort and collaboration and we are fully committed to growing and evolving in this space.
“While ‘Growing Greener’ reflects our early efforts, it also reveals our dedication to transparency, accountability and progress to produce high-quality food, work together with our suppliers and keep responsible sourcing in mind. We will continue to build on this foundation and are extremely excited for what the future holds for us as a business.”
To read the full ‘Growing Greener’ report – here
[1] CGA by NIQ Bidfood 2025 Trends Survey; Sample size: 2000
PACIFIC WEST RINGS IN THE NEW YEAR WITH FOUR INNOVATIVE MENU INSPIRATIONS
Pacific West Foods UK, is starting 2025 strong with the launch of four exciting new products designed to inspire chefs and menu development throughout the year.
Flavourful Twists on Classic Dishes:
- Breaded Sweet & Sour Prawns & Sweetcorn Fritters: This unique offering features the succulent prawns in a crispy sweet and sour coating, shown in this image skewered onto the delicious new Sweetcorn Fritters. Pacific West’s commitment to consistent, high-quality coatings ensures a perfect flavour and texture experience in every bite. The versatile Sweetcorn Fritters can also be enjoyed on their own as a starter, side dish, or part of a sharing platter.
- Sweet & Sour Calamari & Vegetable Spring Rolls: Pacific West takes the classic spring roll to a new level with their innovative Sweet & Sour Calamari & Vegetable Spring Rolls . Made with rice paper and filled with a delicious sweet and sour marinade, chopped calamari, and vegetables, these spring rolls pair perfectly with Asian slaw, noodles, or pickled vegetables and a sweet and sour or mango salsa dip.
Elevating Appetisers and Sharing Plates:
- Hand-Produced Red Thai Calamari & Vegetable Nests : Made with authenticity in mind, these crispy Red Thai Calamari & Vegetable Nests are perfect for serving as a starter or as part of a sharing platter. The delicious nests can be enjoyed with a drizzle of your choice, such as a light coconut mayo.
Pacific West is dedicated to providing its customers with the tools they need to thrive in 2025. “Our strong reputation for new product development is at the core of our mission,” says Martin Finegan, Managing Director at Pacific West. “We are committed to helping operators stay ahead of menu trends and create exciting dining experiences.”
Explore the Possibilities Today
Contact the Pacific West team today to learn more about these exciting new product offerings and request samples. Visit their website at www.pacificwestfoods.co.uk for more information.
IMPORTANT – FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE IN GERMANY – INFORMATION FOR IMPORTERS
The BFFF have received important information from DEFRA following the detection of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Germany, and its subsequent loss of FMD free status. This outbreak means that EHCs for export of relevant products of animal origin from FMD susceptible animals in Germany to GB can no longer be certified.
We will keep members updated as the situation develops, but in the meantime please ensure you read the below thoroughly, including the FAQ’s.
Please note the impact/actions regarding goods currently being held at the GB border and those recently arrived.
Also note that Defra have indicated that goods will be held at port unless processed to an ‘appropriate level’ that they no longer pose a risk of foot and mouth. Therefore, when pre-notifying please upload to IPAFFS evidence of the appropriate treatment / processing as if there is a query as to the origin/treatment/processing, the goods may be held pending clarity. Appropriate risk mitigating treatments are explained further below.
Dear traders,
Following confirmation on 10th January 2025 by the German Chief Veterinary Officer of a detection of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in a herd of farmed water buffalo, Germany has now lost its FMD free status.
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. It causes very significant economic losses, due to production losses in the affected animals and due to the loss of access to foreign markets for animals, meat and milk for affected countries. FMD does not infect humans and does not pose a food safety risk.
Defra are in contact with German counterparts and are working closely with the Devolved Governments to prevent an incursion from imported goods.
What is the impact on the import of live animals and meat products from Germany into Great Britain?
Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) has suspended the import of the following commodities to Great Britain from Germany, following an outbreak of FMD that was confirmed on 10 January 2025:
- live (including non-domestic) ungulates (ruminants and porcine animals, including wild game) and their germplasm
- fresh meat from ungulates
- meat products from ungulates that have not been subject to specific treatment D1 or higher (including wild game) – see ‘Risk Mitigating Treatment’ in Annex XXVI of Commission Delegated Regulation 2020/692 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32020R0692
- milk, colostrum and their products, unless subjected to treatment as defined in Article 4 of Regulation 2010/605 – https://www.legislation.gov.uk/id/eur/2010/605/article/4
- animal by-products, unless treated to effectively mitigate the risk of FMD
These restrictions are set out in the relevant lists on GOV UK.
Further safeguard measures restricting the commercial import of animal by-products and hay and straw from Germany, unless treated to effectively mitigate the risk of FMD, will be published in due course.
What actions do businesses need to take?
Businesses are asked to suspend imports of impacted products (see below) from Germany whilst the German authorities investigate the outbreak.
Where goods are currently being held at the GB border due to the FMD outbreak in Germany, Port Health Authorities and Local Authorities can support businesses to return goods to Germany, with agreement of the veterinary authorities in the EU, using standard processes. Please contact the PHA at the port of entry where your goods are being held for information.
Where these products have recently arrived in GB and the EHC was signed in good faith before the presence of FMD in Germany was confirmed, we urge businesses not to put this product into the GB supply chain.
Investigations in Germany relating to the emergence of disease and possible distribution is not complete. Much of it will be safe but the GB authorities will aim to trace and remove those products that which originated close to the outbreak, in a timeframe where FMD infection or contamination is possible.
We will share further information as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is meat or products from pigs or any other FMD susceptible species sourced outside of Germany but slaughtered in Germany under this restriction?
Regardless of the origin of the pigs, the export would be from Germany and as such would require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) signed by an Official Vet (OV) in Germany. As a consequence of Germany losing FMD freedom this certificate could no longer be signed.
Are pork cuts or those from other FMD susceptible species sourced from outside of Germany that are butchered in Germany and then exported to UK still allowed certification and import into UK?
No, the export would be from Germany and as such would require an EHC signed by an OV in Germany. As a consequence of Germany losing FMD freedom this certificate could no longer be signed.
Is meat or products from pigs, or any other FMD susceptible species, that is exported from Germany but where the animal is slaughtered outside of Germany under this restriction?
This will depend on the ability of the certifying OV to be able to complete and sign the export health certificate. The fresh meat described on the certificate has to meet the FMD requirements in relation to the territory of origin. Therefore, if the pork meat is sourced from outside of Germany and the other parts of the certificate can be met then the product can be imported into GB.
Can products that have been restricted and held at the border be returned to Germany?
Yes, goods that have been held at the border as a consequence of the outbreak of FMD in Germany can be returned to Germany on a voluntary basis subject to agreement by the veterinary authorities in the EU.
What are the rules around transits of EU/ROW commodities through Germany to GB?
If the import conditions set out in the EHC allow it then it will be possible for the goods to transit Germany and be imported into GB. However, any EU required transit certification must also allow such a movement.
What are the rules for transit of goods containing products of susceptible animal origin from Germany through GB to the EU?
As the GB transit certification requires goods to meet GB import certification requirements it will not be possible for products from susceptible species that cannot be imported directly to GB to transit GB territory.
Commodities deemed low risk under the BTOM do not require a certificate, are these goods exempt from the current restrictions?
BTOM low risk products are still required to be treated in accordance with the requirements set out on the relevant certificate and UK regulations. For example, rendered fat for human consumption is categorised under the BTOM as low risk but still needs to comply with the treatment processes set out in UK legislation. Therefore, fully compliant, BTOM low risk goods will be allowed to continue to enter GB.
Contact points
Imports of animal products: for urgent questions about imports of animal products, including germinal products, contact the Port Health Authority or Local Authority at the Border Control Post (BCP) for the goods’ point of entry. Find the BCP and the PHA/LA contact information on this map or list.
Imports of live animals: for urgent questions about imports of live animals, contact APHA.
WHAT IS SINGLE SIGN ON AND WHY DO WE OFFER IT?
In our blog, we explore how Single Sign-On (SSO) simplifies your daily work, keeps your data secure, and helps you simplifying daily tasks while boosting productivity.
Key Benefits of SSO include:
- Simplified Access: Navigate seamlessly across systems using a single set of credentials.
- Strengthened Security: Mitigate risks associated with password fatigue and cyber threats.
- Optimised Efficiency: Minimise time spent managing multiple logins and focus on core business activities.
SSO is a strategic tool to elevate your food safety standards. From supplier management to audits and compliance, SSO is designed to make your operations more secure and effective.
Learn more by reading the full blog here.
FOOD, DRINK & HOSPITALITY WEEK 2025: REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE UK’S BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF INDUSTRY INNOVATION
Visitor registration has opened for Food, Drink & Hospitality Week 2025, an event which brings together professionals from across the food, drink, and hospitality sectors.
Taking place on 17–19 March 2025 at Excel London, Food, Drink & Hospitality Week offers an unparalleled opportunity to network, discover innovation, and gain invaluable industry insights.
Food, Drink & Hospitality Week comprises five events:
IFE
With over four decades of excellence, IFE serves as a cornerstone event for food and drink professionals, connecting buyers from retail, hospitality, and wholesale with innovative suppliers. From the Startup Market—a showcase of entrepreneurial brands—to the lively New Products Tasting Theatre, the show highlights the future of food through interactive content and live pitches.
IFE Ambassador Kerri Fidler, Head of Portfolio – Food for Later at Greencore, emphasises the show’s significance: “IFE is one of the key events in the food industry calendar—not only to bring together conversations but share learning and new innovation. It’s great to be part of this and make a difference across the food industry.”
With exhibitors representing over 50 countries, IFE provides unparalleled opportunities to discover the best UK brands and global suppliers, alongside expert insights on the Future Food Stage.
IFE 2025 will also see the return of the World Food Innovation Awards, in partnership with FoodBev Media, where brands are recognised in diverse range of categories including Artisan Product, Drink Innovation, and New/Start-up Business.
IFE Manufacturing
IFE Manufacturing is a hub for innovation, catering to the specific needs of manufacturers, co-packers, and food and drink developers. Attendees can engage with the latest sustainable packaging solutions, ethical ingredient brands, and state-of-the-art processing technologies.
This year, the show will once again host the IFE Manufacturing Ingredients Awards, in partnership with the Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST), to celebrate ground-breaking ingredient innovations that are shaping the future of the sector.
Craig Leadley, CEO of IFST, adds: “IFST is delighted to partner again in 2025 with IFE Manufacturing to showcase and celebrate the pioneering ingredient innovators driving improvements in food manufacturing.
“In 2024 we saw a highly successful launch of the awards with a great number of high-quality entries across the five initial judging categories. We can’t wait to see what ingredients producers have been working on to produce exciting innovative and sustainable products to enhance nutrition and food quality.”
HRC
HRC, the UK’s leading event for hospitality and foodservice, returns in 2025 with an expanded offering, including a new Pizza & Pasta section, and a focus on the latest in design, hospitality technology, and professional kitchens. Plus, the Vision Stage and TechX stage will host dynamic discussions on trends, best practices, and technological innovations and sessions conceived by industry partners such as Tech on Toast and Peach.
Robert Richardson, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality, highlights the value of the event, commenting: “HRC’s importance cannot be overstated. It is a gathering of the best and brightest in the hospitality industry, a chance to celebrate our shared successes, address our common challenges, and shape the future of our field.”
This year’s event will see the return of popular feature area Chef HQ, in partnership with Chef Publishing, which plays host to a wide range of chef demos, interviews and networking opportunities.
With countless networking opportunities and inspiring presentations, HRC remains the go-to destination for hospitality professionals to discover industry-leading products and services.
The 2025 edition will see the return of the World Catering Technology Awards, in partnership with FoodBev Media, which recognise technology innovators in the food and beverage industry and celebrate the cutting-edge technologies and revolutionary solutions that are transforming the catering sector.
The Pub Show
The Pub Show is the UK’s only trade show dedicated exclusively to pubs and bars, offering visitors a dynamic programme of events and discussions. Highlights include the lively Beer Garden and The Pub Stage, which will be packed with insightful seminars and actionable case studies from leading pub operators.
This year The Pub Show has confirmed two key association partnerships in the form of the British Institute of Innkeeping and the British Beer & Pub Association.
Steve Alton, CEO of the BII, says: “For anyone in the industry, taking time out of your business to network, attend panel discussions, and source new suppliers is a must. The Pub Show provides the perfect opportunity to access all of this and more in one place.”
From new product tastings to insights on industry challenges, The Pub Show ensures attendees will leave with actionable ideas to transform their businesses.
International Salon Culinaire
International Salon Culinaire will host over 100 live competitions showcasing exceptional talent from chefs across the UK. Highlights include live theatre challenges and displays of creativity that make this competition a must-see for culinary enthusiasts.
Nick Vadis, Culinary Director at Headline Sponsor Compass Group UK & Ireland and Chef Ambassador to the NHS Supply Chain, says: “International Salon Culinaire is an incredibly valuable chance for chefs to expand their skillset, demonstrate their creativity and resourcefulness, and connect with industry peers.
“The competition has been fantastic for chefs across Compass Group who have been able to stand out from the crowd and embrace new opportunities within the business. I can’t wait to see what this year’s competitors bring to the table.”
Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of the UK’s biggest celebration of innovation in food, drink and hospitality on 17-19 March 2025 at Excel London. To find out more about everything happening as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit fooddrinkandhospitalityweek.co.uk.
