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The Role of the Trading Standards Service

The Service has many functions, both statutory and otherwise.  One of these functions is to regulate the marketing of food at retail, wholesale and manufacturing level.  Checks are carried out to ensure the accuracy of labelling, composition, description, pricing and quantities.

Dealing with Local Businesses

Officers visit food businesses depending on a risk assessment.  Normally an officer will speak to the person in charge of the premises before examining any goods, labelling or equipment.  On occasions, an officer will pose as a customer to observe a complete transaction or to make a test purchase.

Officers always carry identification which can be verified by calling a number on the back of the card.  An appointment will not normally be made because the intention of the inspection is to see the premises in their normal condition.

Where an officer requires action to be taken, a note will be left explaining in plain English what is required.

The Service regularly takes samples of food for analysis to ensure they comply with compositional requirements.  These samples may be taken as part of a routine visit, or on an informal basis.

The aim of the Service is the creation of a culture of fair trading in Portsmouth.  As such we are dedicated to working with businesses to help them improve their trading practices.  We have a trader approval scheme called Square Deal which businesses can apply for to prove to their customers dedication to customer care.  The scheme is promoted through the Trading Standards Service and customers can get details of traders who are members through the City Helpdesk and the Website (see link on right hand side).  If you require any further information regarding Square Deal please call 023 9283 4689.

Traders based in Portsmouth can contact the Trading Standards Service on 023 9283 4689 or by email trading.standards@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

We are happy to advise on all Trading Standards issues.  We will aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days although we do have a Duty Officer available most afternoons and many enquiries will be dealt with on the same day.  For round the clock information the "Ask CEdRIC" website (see link on right hand side) is an invaluable tool.  It is a very user friendly website giving extensive information and advice on a vast range of business related topics.  It also has many links to further websites which hold more specialist advice.