elintarvikelain

The Finnish Food Act, known in Finnish as elintarvikelaki, is the primary legislation governing food safety and related matters in Finland. This comprehensive law establishes the framework for ensuring that food placed on the Finnish market is safe for consumption and meets specific quality standards. It covers various aspects of the food chain, from primary production to processing, distribution, and retail.

Key provisions of the elintarvikelaki include requirements for food businesses to implement and maintain their own food safety systems, often based on HACCP principles. The act also mandates traceability of food products, allowing authorities to track food through the supply chain in case of contamination or other safety concerns. It defines the responsibilities of both food business operators and official control authorities, which are primarily handled by municipal food control and the Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto).

The elintarvikelaki aims to protect consumer health by preventing foodborne illnesses and misleading practices. It addresses issues such as food labeling, hygiene standards, and the control of undesirable substances in food. The law is regularly updated to align with European Union regulations, as Finland is a member state of the EU and food law is largely harmonized at the EU level. Compliance with the elintarvikelaki is crucial for any business involved in the food sector operating in or importing food into Finland.