By Neil Griffiths Bsc (Hons).,MChemA.,CChem.,CSci.,FRSC.,FIFST.,FSOFHT
Director for Neil Griffiths Advisory Ltd

After 45 years working across the food industry—from science to enforcement—I’ve come to one conclusion:

There is too much certainty in what we’re told about food.

Much of what reaches consumers is shaped by:

Commercial interests
Policy agendas
Selective interpretation of science

That doesn’t mean it’s wrong—but it does mean it’s often incomplete.

This book offers a clear, independent perspective on:

What’s actually in our food
How food safety really works
Where common beliefs don’t match the evidence

Preface

The inspiration behind this book stems from two primary motivations. First, after years of enjoying writing, presenting, and lecturing, I finally have the time to explore the notion that everyone has a book within them. But perhaps more importantly, I feel compelled to address a gap in the literature surrounding food. In my experience, few authors in this field manage to present truly independent perspectives – untouched by personal bias, financial incentives, or conflicts of interest. It is my hope that this book can offer a fresh, realistic, and well-supported viewpoint on the food industry and the choices we face as consumers.

Each chapter addresses a distinct theme within the wider world of food – covering topics such as safety, regulation, nutrition, allergens, labelling, and the influence of vested interests. While the chapters are linked by common threads, each has been written to stand on its own. This means you can turn directly to the areas that interest you most, without feeling obliged to follow a set sequence. Whether your concern lies with a single issue or with the food system more broadly, I hope this approach will make the book both accessible and useful.

Having spent 45 years working within the food industry, I’ve witnessed many of its crises – real and imagined. However, this is not a tell-all exposé. Rather, this book is a candid reflection on my journey as a seasoned food professional and aims to shed light on the complexities of food production, regulation, and consumption. My goal is to share insights that will inform and empower you, the reader, with a deeper understanding of the food you eat, free from sensationalism or agendas.

I’ll admit that I delayed writing this book until I reached retirement, when I no longer have the concerns of upsetting employers, clients, or navigating conflicts of interest. Now, as someone who is financially independent, I can approach this subject with greater freedom, striving to offer you a balanced and objective perspective based on sound, verifiable information.

Of course, complete objectivity is an elusive goal. After four and a half decades in the food industry, some bias is inevitable. Yet I can assure you that my intention is to provide an honest, well-researched account of the food industry, steering clear of exaggeration or alarmism. My aim is not to demonise the food sector but to help you better navigate the overwhelming amount of information on food safety, legality, and nutrition.

Contents

Chapter 1: Setting the scene 14

Chapter 3: How are you protected? 28

Chapter 4: The politics and pressures 33

Chapter 5: Food poisoning and its prevention 42

The background 42

The causes of food poisoning 45

Systems and procedures to ensure food safety 48