Inside the black box of food safety: a qualitative study of 'non‐compliance' among food businesses. (29th October 2015) - Brough, Mark
Abstract : Issue addressed: This paper examines the meaning of food safety among food businesses deemed non‐compliant and considers the need for an insider perspective to inform a more nuanced health promotion practice. Methods: In‐depth interviews were conducted with 29 food business operators who had recently been deemed 'noncompliant' through Council inspection. Results: Paradoxically, these 'non‐compliers' revealed a strong belief in the importance of food safety as well as a desire to comply with the regulations as communicated to them by Environmental Health Officers. Conclusions: The evidence base of food safety is largely informed by the science of food hazards, yet there is a very important need to consider the practical daily application of food safety practices. This requires a more socially nuanced appreciation of food businesses beyond the simple dichotomy of compliant/ non‐compliant. So what?: Armed with a deeper understanding of the social context surrounding food safety practice, it is anticipated that a more balanced, collaborative mode of food safety health promotion could develop, which could add to the current model of regulation. Abstract : Although the science of food safety regulation is critical to good public health practice, it tells us little about the circumstances surrounding non‐compliance. This research qualitatively explored the meanings and practices of 29 'non‐compliant' food businesses in order to understand their 'insider' perspectives of food safety regulation. The findings demonstrate the value of developing collaborative partnerships that can complement the food safety regulatory framework.