Information sheet 85 is changed to 'Food Microbiology Handbook'

Recently, the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) published the draft "Food Microbiology Handbook. This handbook will soon replace information sheet 85.

Why was the handbook created and to whom does it apply?

The NVWA has decided to update Information Sheet 85 and rename it a handbook. The handbook is intended as an aid for companies that process, produce and distribute food to clarify the legal obligations in relation to food microbiology.

The content explains a number of texts from European Regulation (EC) No. 2073/2005. This regulation deals with the microbiological criteria for foodstuffs applicable at different stages of food production and trade, the main purpose of which is to protect consumers from food safety risks of microbiological origin.

Reacting to the draft version

Last Nov. 15, 2024, the draft version of the "Food Microbiology Handbook" was published by the NVWA.

If you are a retailer, manufacturer, food producer or other user, you can respond to the draft handbook. You can do so no later than Dec. 31, 2024. The handbook will be published definitively during 2025.

The draft handbook and more information is available at this link: Handbook of Food Microbiology | Publication | NVWA

Want to know more?

Want to know more about the handbook and what it means for your business? Contact us for a detailed explanation at info@precongroup.com, NL +31 (0)30 65 66 010 or BE +32 (0)11 26 99 07.