Food complaints

This Council will investigate complaints about food sold within its area to protect public health and ensure that food and food packaging meets the relevant legal standards. When the food is purchased outside the Council's area, the complainant will be advised of the relevant local authority who should deal with their complaint. In accordance with national guidance standards, we may assist in transferring the food to that authority.

Enforcement duties for food complaints have been divided between the District and County Councils as follows:

Tandridge District Council will investigate complaints of:

• Contamination by micro-organisms or their toxins.
• Contamination by mould or foreign matter / objects.
• Unfit food.

Surrey County Council Trading Standards will investigate complaints of:

• Chemical contamination or improper use of substances in food so as to pose a risk of injury to health informing the Local Authority(s) potentially affected.
• Compositional offences, adulteration and misleading claims.
• Poor or improper labelling.
• Food sold after its best before or use by date.
• Poor quality food.

Separate procedures are operated for allegations of food poisoning or food hygiene .

Making a food complaint

When you make a complaint we will initially need to know:

• Your name, address, telephone contact numbers (mobile, home and work), fax and e.mail contact details as appropriate
• The identity and contact address of the person who discovered the complaint issue, if it was not you
• As much as possible about the complaint, where you bought it, when, the condition of the packaging etc
• The history to the point of discovery, did you have it delivered, did you buy it and take it home, where was the product stored,
• What you have done with it and any treatment it has undergone whilst in your possession?
• The name and address of any witnesses who were present when you discovered the problem
• Any ill effects or any injuries that were suffered
• Whether you have been to Hospital or contacted your Doctor about any ill effects
• Any contact you have had with the vendor or manufacturer
• Any evidence you have including, packaging, the complaint item, residue food, receipts etc

If formal action is considered necessary you will be asked to make a statement and may be asked to attend court and give evidence.

Please note that the Council will not seek to obtain or otherwise negotiate any compensation or redress on the behalf of the complainant(s).

If you want to make a complaint please use the following on line form: Environmental health complaint form