The three-year contract award has been agreed to ensure food is safe and animal welfare is protected in FSA-approved establishments. 

The delivery of these controls support current EU and domestic standards, and is valued at approximately £84m over the three-year term. 

Eville and Jones Ltd were the successful bidder, after undergoing a competitive tender exercise set against various technical and commercial criteria. They have been awarded six separate contracts across all areas of England and Wales, to provide official veterinarians and meat hygiene inspectors to work alongside FSA staff. 

Eville and Jones are the incumbent supplier so change is expected to be minimal. However, additional services for dairy and audit functions are included and will require some additional training and preparation ahead of contract start date. 

Colin Sullivan, FSA Chief Operating Officer, said: “The delivery of these Official Controls are vital in maintaining the public’s confidence in meat and dairy food products and are also an essential requirement for the UK food industry wher these sectors are worth over £8.5bn per year.

“We are confident that our choice of supplier will work in an excellent partnership with us and continue to deliver high standards and value for money.”