EU Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 - Specific Hygiene Rules for Food of Animal Origin

What it says

This Regulation lays down specific hygiene rules for food business operators handling food of animal origin, such as meat, milk, fish and eggs, in addition to the general rules of Regulation 852/2004. Establishments handling these products generally must be approved by the competent authority before operating, products must bear a health or identification mark, and the Regulation sets requirements for specific sectors and for traceability and imports.

Paraphrased for plain-language clarity. Always verify against the current published regulation text.

What it means in practice

• It adds to the general hygiene regulation, so both apply to the same establishment.
• Approval is a precondition for operating, and conditions can be set or withdrawn by the authority.
• Identification marks tell the market and authorities where a product came from.

What inspectors look for

• Whether the establishment is approved and operating within that approval.
• Whether products are correctly marked.
• Whether sector-specific requirements, such as temperature controls, are met.

Related regulations