Certificate of Acceptability (COA)

Comfort to you and your business

Certificate bringing approval

A Certificate of Acceptability (COA) is a vital permit confirming your food business meets basic food safety and hygiene requirements in South Africa. Food Compliance Agency streamlines the COA application process, ensuring a smooth and compliant operation.

Here’s what our COA assistance includes:

Expert Guidance: Our team clarifies the specific COA requirements for your food business type based on your activities and location.

Pre-Inspection Support: We guide you on preparing your premises, staff and admin for the health inspector’s visit to ensure a successful outcome.

Application Assistance: We help you complete the COA application form accurately and efficiently.

Documentation Support: We advise on gathering necessary documents, such as floor plans, cleaning schedules, training rosters, zoning certificates (where applicable), fire clearance certificates (where applicable) etc. as per the latest requirements.

Municipal Liaison: We handle communication with your local municipality, saving you time and ensuring a smooth application process.

Complimentary tools: We provide a “Best Practice Module” that offers operational guidelines, along with food safety and hygiene posters. You’ll also have access to templates for cleaning schedules and training rosters to support your daily operations.you time and ensuring a smooth application process.

Post-Inspection Support: In case of any corrective actions identified by the health inspector, we can assist you in addressing them efficiently.

Benefits of Using Food Compliance Agency:

Save Time & Resources: Focus on running your business, while we handle the COA application and liaise with the municipality.

Ensure Compliance: Our expertise helps you meet all necessary requirements and avoid potential delays or complications.

Access: You’ll have access to templates for cleaning schedules and training rosters to support your daily operations. We also provide a “Best Practice Module” that offers operational guidelines, along with food safety and hygiene posters.

Gain Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a valid COA allows you to operate with confidence.

FLEXIBILITY

Clients are required to pay 70% of our agency fee upon engagement, with the remaining balance due upon successful collection of the certificate. Municipality fees are paid directly by the client to the Municipality.

EXPERTISE

With our industry experience and expertise in dealing with municipal authorities, we expedite the application process, minimizing delays in getting the certificates.

TRANSPARENCY

We closely work with you in order to ensure we get all the right documents that your business will need to submit. Clear costs and communication.

Frequently asked questions

Do all food businesses need a COA?

In most cases, yes. A COA is mandatory for any food business whose operations fall under The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972. This includes businesses involved in preparing, packing, processing, or transporting food.

How much does a COA cost?

The Municipality fee very according to the region your store is in. Our quotation includes the Municipality fee as well as our admin and processing fee unless otherwise noted.

How long does it take to get a COA?

Processing times can vary depending on your municipality’s workload and the outcome of the health inspection. Partnering with Food Compliance Agency can help streamline the process and potentially expedite your application.

What documents do I need to apply for a COA?

Required documents can vary, but may include:
– Completed COA application form
– Company and FICA documents
– Floor plans of your business premises
– Proof of Food Handlers Training
– Zoning Certificate
– Fire Clearance Certificate
– Copy of your Menu
– List of Suppliers
– Extraction Service Certificate
– Proof of Pest Control
– Cleaning Schedule
– Applicable COCs

What happens if I operate without a COA?

Operating without a valid COA is illegal and can result in fines, business closure, and potential legal repercussions.

Can Food Compliance Agency help me prepare for the health inspection?

Absolutely! We can provide guidance on ensuring your premises, equipment, and staff practices comply with hygiene regulations. This can significantly increase your chances of a successful inspection on the first try.

What happens if I fail the health inspection?

Don’t worry, we can help! Food Compliance Agency can assist you in understanding the identified issues and implementing corrective actions to ensure a successful re-inspection.

I bought over a business. Is the current COA still valid?

No. A COA is made out to both the premises and the person in charge of the premises. Food Compliance Agency can gladly assist you in updating the COA with a “Change of Ownership”.

Your compliance needs

Choose from our range of flexible pricing options that cater to your specific needs.

Certificate of Acceptability (COA)

A permit issued in South Africa to food businesses that meet health and safety regulations.

R3 500/once off*

Hassle free process

Certificate delivered to you

Simple/clear costs

Find out more

*Starting price, this can vary according to the Municipality fee for the area your store is in.

Business Trading License

Required by law for certain businesses, including food service operations, to operate from your local municipality.

R3 500/once off*

Hassle free process

Certificate delivered to you

Simple/clear costs

Find out more

*Starting price, this can vary according to the Municipality fee for the area your store is in.

Liquor License Application

A permit for businesses to sell, manufacture, store, or otherwise use alcoholic beverages.

R27 500/ONCE OFF*

Hassle free process

License delivered to you

Simple/clear costs

Find Our More

*Starting price, this can vary according to the type of store the license is required for.