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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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Analysis finds undeclared hazelnut in fake Wonka Bar
A business owner from Huddersfield, who's been trading in Barnsley, has pleaded guilty for selling counterfeit products with incorrect labelling and allergy advice. Nathan Bennett, 33, of Leeds Road, Huddersfield, pleaded guilty at Barnsley Magistrates Court on Monday 4 April 2022 to Food Safety, Labelling and Trademarks charges. The case was adjourned until Tuesday 26 April to allow for the completion of pre-sentencing reports. In August 2021, following a complaint from a member of the public, a Trading Standards Officer visited his premises in the Alhambra Centre in Barnsley and got a sample of what appeared to be a counterfeit Wonka Bar. The sample was submitted to Public Analyst Dr Duncan Campbell for analysis.
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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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Assistant Group Manager - Food, Microbiology & Water with Glasgow Scientific Services
Glasgow Scientific Services is looking to recruit a highly motivated team player with a flair for development within the areas of food, agriculture and water chemistry. You will join the laboratories management team and contribute to shaping the future direction of the laboratory. The role requires an individual with an attention to detail and a flexible management style that can tailor their approach to bring out the best within their team. You will be required to offer support and advise our extensive client base ensuring that their various needs are met as well as explore new markets for development. You will be responsible for the development and management of the food, water and microbiology sections of the laboratory in conjunction with the sectional team leaders. You will also take the lead in developing and maintaining the LIMs system.
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Tender Opportunities
Latest News
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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 -
Kent Laboratory features in Channel 5 show “Shoplifters & Scammers: At War with the Law
20 October 2021
