Food hygiene comprises all conditions and measures required for the production, processing, storage and distribution of food in order to obtain a healthy and wholesome product that is safe for human consumption.

The so-called EU hygiene package has been applicable since January 1, 2006. An essential part of these European regulations, which apply to all member states in the European Union, is the obligation to obtain approval for all businesses that handle food of animal origin. This includes meat, including poultry, fish, milk and eggs.

According to Article 4 of Regulation (EC) 853/2004, food businesses may only place products of animal origin manufactured in the Community on the market if they have been handled and processed exclusively in establishments that meet the relevant requirements of Regulations  (EC) 852/2004 (opens in a new tab) and  (EC) 853/2004 (opens in a new tab) and have been registered - or, if necessary, approved - by the competent authority.

The State Agency for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection of North Rhine-Westphalia (LANUV) explains the meaning, requirements and exceptions to the authorization requirement on the following website: