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Is it illegal to sell food without a license in the UK?

Posted by Damian Roberti on

 

Is It Illegal to Sell Food Without a License in the UK?

If you’re thinking about selling food in the UK — whether from home, online, a market stall, or a café — one of the first questions you might have is: “Do I need a license to sell food?” The short answer is yes — in most cases it’s illegal to sell food without registering your food business. Let’s break it down.

Do You Need a Food Business License in the UK?

Technically, most food sellers in the UK don’t need a “license” but they must register as a food business with their local authority. This applies to:

  • Home bakers selling cakes, breads, or jams.

  • Coffee roasters or snack businesses selling online.

  • Street food vendors, caterers, and market stalls.

  • Restaurants, cafés, takeaways, or food trucks.

Registration is free, but it’s a legal requirement under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 (and equivalent rules in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland).

 

 

 

What Happens If You Don’t Register?

If you start selling food without registering:

  • Your local authority can shut down your business.

  • You may face fines or prosecution.

  • It may also invalidate your insurance if something goes wrong, like a foodborne illness.

In short, not registering can cost you far more than just time.

 

 

 

When Do You Need Extra Licenses?

While registration is always required, certain types of food businesses also need an additional license or approval:

  • Alcohol sales – require a premises license.

  • Street trading – many councils require a street trading license for food stalls and trucks.

  • Meat, dairy, or fish businesses – may need approval from the local authority in addition to registration.

 

 

 

How to Register a Food Business in the UK

Registering is straightforward:

  1. Go to your local authority’s website.

  2. Fill in the online registration form.

  3. Submit at least 28 days before you begin trading.

  4. Expect a food hygiene inspection after registering.

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

So, is it illegal to sell food without a license in the UK? Yes. If you fail to register with your local authority, your food business is operating illegally. The good news is that registration is free, quick, and ensures your business is compliant and ready to grow.

👉 Want more guidance on starting a food business in the UK? Subscribe to my YouTube channel Marketing Food Online UK for tons of free tips and tutorials.