Cost of Ready Meals
across the UK

# Ready Meals: Trade Body Accreditation Guide

The ready meals sector in the UK is primarily regulated by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which sets legal requirements for food safety, labelling, and hygiene that all manufacturers must meet. Beyond this baseline, several voluntary accreditation schemes provide additional assurance. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) Global Standard for Food Safety is widely recognized and indicates that a producer operates to rigorous food safety, quality, and operational standards. The Safe and Local Supplier Approval Programme (SALSAP) is another credible scheme, particularly for smaller producers. Additionally, some ready meal providers may hold certification under ISO 22000 (food safety management) or be accredited by the British Quality Foundation. These schemes go beyond legal minimum requirements and demonstrate a commitment to traceability, staff training, and continuous improvement. Understanding which accreditations a supplier holds helps consumers identify which providers have invested in verified quality systems.

To verify a provider's accreditation, you should ask for their certificate number and check it directly on the relevant body's website—the BRC maintains a searchable directory of certified organizations, as does the FSA's official register for registered food businesses. Many reputable ready meal suppliers will display their accreditation logos prominently on their website or packaging. It is worth requesting evidence because accreditation matters significantly: it means the provider has undergone independent third-party audits, maintains documented procedures for food safety and quality, and is subject to regular compliance checks. This reduces the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks, allergen mishandling, or mislabelling. Accreditation also typically indicates better traceability in case of product recalls, which protects both your health and your rights as a consumer.

Accredited ready meal providers generally charge a premium compared to non-accredited alternatives, sometimes 10 to 20