Course overview:
The Understanding & Implementing EU Food Law course is designed to present you with a clear, accessible introduction to the food laws and regulations of the European Union. After completing this course, you will have an excellent understanding of the current state of European Union food law and cutting-edge knowledge of current issues and possible changes.
Beginning with an overview of historical developments, you will explore the evolution of legislation into the current rules and regulations of current European Union food law. With this robust foundation, you will investigate vital legislative topics (such as food labelling and food additives), the relationships between European Union institutions and member states, and the interaction of the European Union with other international bodies.
The European Union is a key, lucrative market for many countries worldwide, and ensuring compliance with its requirements is a significant issue for trade. The EU is also a leader in establishing effective food laws and related control systems, with its legislation frequently being used as a basis for national and regional food laws. As a result, this course would be of immediate importance to anyone in a regulatory capacity. Still, the impact of food law affects every aspect of the agrifood industries, and so would be of importance to professionals employed in any capacity in the sector.
Learning outcomes:
On completion of the Understanding & Implementing EU food Law course, participants will be able to:
- explain the origins and background of European Union food legislation and describe its overall structure and critical components
- explain the relationship between European Union law and national law (e.g. the UK)
- access the legal requirements which are imposed on the food industry
- assist food companies in compliance with legal obligations deriving from European Union food law
- more effectively participate in influencing the development of future European Union food laws.
The following transferable skills will be developed in this course:
- Critical evaluation of data from a variety of sources
- Effective communication of scientific information in oral and written format with scientific rigour
- Debating skills
Additional Course Information:
This course is designed to develop knowledge and understanding of European Union food law matters. Topics covered include:
- The historical development of the European Union food law
- The main elements in the current European Union food law
- The procedures and policies used by the EU to develop legislation
- The relationship between the EU legislation and more comprehensive international policies
- A deeper consideration of some critical legislative topics (for example, food labelling, food additives or food hygiene)
- Introduction to the EU and its global relevance
- Historical development of EU food law
- Current policies and procedures
- The role of the European Food Safety Authority in the provision of scientific advice
- Relationships between the European Union Institutions and activities in the Member States
- Main elements of current European Union food law
- Detailed evaluation of selected food law topic
Access:
The course consists entirely of Internet-based course material (including audio/visual files, pdf documents and web links) with exercises for each element, enabling participants to assess their understanding and progress. Interaction with the course leader will be available using discussion fora.
Key facts:
| Course Dates | 15th April 2024 |
| Type/Duration | 8 Weeks online |
| Entry Requirements | Graduate level or relevant experience |
| Cost | £1200 |
| CQFW Level | 7 |
| Course Provider | University of Reading |
| Provider Reference Number | FZMR10 |
| Course Arrangements | Full joining instructions will be confirmed by the course provider. |
| Course Location | Online, University of Reading |
| Cohort | Continued Professional Development |
| Course Logistics | Delivered entirely online through the University of Reading’s Virtual Learning Environment over an eight-week period, it is suggested that material is reviewed every week; however, participants may vary their speed of learning to suit their requirements.The course is available as Continued Professional Development or with the award of 10 academic credits for participants completing a postgraduate programme*. *please contact the EPTH office if you wish to complete the module for academic credit. |
| Tutor | Dr David Jukes
|
Contact details:
Contact Name for Enquiries: Fiona Lee or Cathy Crips