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Protecting the Public
The Association of Public Analysts (also known as the APA) is the professional body for the highly-skilled scientists who make up the front-line of the UK’s public protection service. The Public Analyst works to ensure the health and safety of the public in relation to food, animal feed, water, environmental matters and consumer protection.
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Working in Partnership
The Association of Public Analysts works hand in hand with protection and enforcement bodies such as the Fire Service, Trading Standards, Environmental Health and the Food Standards Agency. These bodies work together to ensure the safety and protection of everyone in the UK. The APA also works with schools and community groups to raise awareness and understanding of public protection issues.
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Rigorous, in-depth Training
Keeping the public safe requires professionals with the highest level of training and qualification. Once qualified, public analysts must maintain their skills and competencies to ensure they are in an informed position to respond to emerging issues. The APA has a strong focus on training and organises a range of training activities for practising public analysts and those training to join the profession.
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History and Heritage
The Association of Public Analysts traces its origins back to the 19th century when laws were first introduced in the UK to combat the growing problem of food fraud and adulteration. The requirement for local authorities to appoint an analyst was enshrined in The Adulteration of Food and Drink Act 1860 and the need for a professional association to represent these analysts and to maintain high standards in the profession was recognised.
Headlines
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Food Standards Scotland Board Consider Access to Laboratories
At its Board Meeting on the 15th June Food Standards Scotland (FSS) discussed a paper putting the case for a nationally funded delivery model for official food and feed laboratory services (PA labs). The paper acknowledged the key role of these laboratories in protecting public health and safeguarding consumer interests, and referenced the reports and reviews that have made the case for a strong public sector system over the years. It noted the lack of any formal relationship between FSS and the four local authorities which own the laboratories (Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow and Edinburgh). The paper focused on two possible delivery models, both of which would require additional funds to counteract the effects of the long term underinvestment in the Public Analyst laboratories.
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What we do - Making it crystal clear
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Putting things in Perspective
The day to day work carried out by the members of the APA has a direct effect on our daily lives — from the food that we eat to the air we breathe, from checking the safety of children's toys to providing a frontline emergency response unit for chemical leaks.
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Case studies
View some recent case studies of work carried out by members of the APA showcasing the diverse range of instances where our members get involved.
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Job Vacancies
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Analyst - Food & Water Laboratory with Minton, Treharne & Davies Ltd - Cardiff
Opportunity for a successful candidate to become part of the team in the dynamic and varied testing division.
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Tender Opportunities
Latest News
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Analysis finds undeclared hazelnut in fake Wonka Bar
16 April 2022 -
Subway’s Sweet Subs
15 February 2022 -
Food Standards Agency Seeks Solution to Lab Sustainability
07 February 2022 -
Minton Treharne & Davies Public Analyst laboratory entertains Food Standards Agency Board Members
13 December 2021 -
MTD Public Analyst appears on BBC Wales consumer programme “X-Ray”
26 October 2021
