New PACE powers to tackle food fraud for FSA's NFCU in force
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) now has new investigatory powers, effective 1 May 2025. Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE 1984), NFCU investigators can apply for and execute search warrants independently, enhancing their ability to investigate food fraud. The powers aim to reduce reliance on police and local authorities for warrant execution, allowing direct intervention in food crime cases. The change marks a significant expansion of NFCU's capabilities since its establishment following the 2013 horse meat crisis.