The EU Food Safety Project is now supporting food business operators (FBOs) through an approach that combines needs assessment, practical consultancy and training, while strengthening the role of local organisations in supporting the food sector.
As a first step, a needs assessment survey was conducted among FBOs to better understand their needs, challenges and priorities related to food safety and hygiene. Based on the findings, a group of FBOs that expressed interest in the process has been selected to take part in a pilot phase.
Together with prospective trainers, EU Food Safety Project experts have started visiting participating FBOs. During these visits, businesses receive individual consultancy and training tailored to their specific needs. At the same time, the local trainers take part in the visits, gaining practical experience and learning directly from the Project’s experts.
The approach will continue with group training sessions for FBOs, delivered at the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry’s premises together with EU Food Safety Project experts and the trainers. The sessions will address common needs identified through the assessment and practical visits, including hygiene, HACCP and other relevant food safety practices.
Importantly, this approach is designed not only to support businesses today, but also to strengthen the local expert’s role as a long-term partner for the food sector. By developing the knowledge and practical skills of its trainers, the Project aims to contribute to a sustainable support mechanism through which they can continue to deliver training, guidance and assistance to food businesses beyond the lifetime of the Project.
This work is part of the EU Food Safety Project’s efforts to build stronger links between food businesses and organisations supporting a more sustainable system of food safety knowledge, guidance and support.
From identifying needs to practical support and local expertise—working together for a stronger food sector.