Silverhound Vets
Veterinary Public Health Practitioners
Export/Import Specialists
Our background
The Silverhound team brings over 20 years of experience in Veterinary Public Health, providing the knowledge and expertise you need to move your business forward.
Led by its CEO, Dr Noelia Yusta, Silverhound was made to tackle the diverse nature of the veterinary public health job. Something that started as a series of bespoke services evolved into our mainstay.
At Silverhound Vets, we support colleagues, industry, government authorities, and private clients.
We specialise in Food Safety, but our expertise goes so much further.
Experts in Food Law & Regulations
National legal frameworks are a key pillar in an effective food control system. In all countries, food is governed by a complexity of laws and regulations, which set out the government’s requirements to be met by food chain operators to ensure food safety and quality. The term “food law” applies to legislation which regulates the production, trade and handling of food and hence covers the regulation of food control, food safety, quality and relevant aspects of food trade across the entire food chain, from the provision for animal feed to the consumer.
Food law and regulation experts play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of food products with legal standards and regulations. Here's a breakdown of what we do:
Interpretation and Compliance
We are responsible for interpreting and understanding complex food laws and regulations at local, national, and international levels. We stay updated on changes in regulations and ensure that food businesses comply with them. We sit at the APHA Research group.
Advisory Services
We provide guidance and advice to food companies, producers, distributors, and retailers on regulatory compliance, labeling requirements, food safety protocols, and legal obligations. We work with market-leading companies.
Policy Development
As food law and regulation experts, we develop new food policies and regulations to address emerging issues such as food safety, nutrition, food labeling, and sustainability. We have actively contributed to improving Animal Welfare national and European legislation.
Risk Assessment and Management
We assess the risks associated with food production, processing, distribution, and consumption. We develop strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure food products meet safety standards. We directly collaborate with Health Protection Scotland.
Quality Control
We can oversee quality control measures to ensure that food products meet specified safety, freshness, and nutritional content standards. We may also conduct inspections and audits to verify compliance. We currently audit feedstuffs and food production facilities, enabling the export process.
Legal Advocacy
In cases of disputes, recalls, or regulatory violations, food law, and regulation, we as experts may provide legal representation and advocacy on behalf of food companies or regulatory agencies. We have supported Local Authority's investigations by providing expert advice at Court.
Training and Education
We provide training sessions, seminars, and educational materials to the veterinary profession and food industry professionals to enhance their understanding of food laws and regulations and promote compliance. We are recognised lecturers working with top international universities. We have created innovative digital tools that support learning in the food industry.
Collaboration
Collaboration with other stakeholders such as government agencies, industry associations, consumer advocacy groups, and scientific organizations is often part of our role to ensure effective regulation and enforcement. Overall, as food law and regulation experts, we play a critical role in safeguarding public health, ensuring consumer confidence, and maintaining the integrity of the food supply chain.
In the day to day, we provide comprehensive veterinary inspection services for Products of Animal Origin (POAO) imports and exports, ensuring compliance with the latest UK and EU legislation. Our services will assist PHA/BCPs to maneuver through the complexities of the new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM).
Compliance with UK and EU regulations
Enhanced Import Controls services for PHA/BCPs:
- We will support you with the requirements relating to enforcement of veterinary border controls for POAOs.
- Dr Noelia Yusta is proficient in documentary and physical checks, guaranteeing that all imports adhere to the necessary health standards and upcoming import control modifications.
Traveling with Animal Companions
You will need to get an export certificate and complete an export application form, if you are intending to leave the UK with your pet.
This might sound like a cumbersome task - we can assist you through all the paperwork and checklists. No surprises, you will be fully informed!
The trainer of the trainers
Dr Noelia Yusta has been the trainer of trainers for the last 12 years. She is a specialist with the European College of Veterinary Public Health, Food Safety Specialty. She has produced innovative educational resources validated by RCVS and utilized by world-leading institutions and has produced scientific work that has directly impacted national policy and moved European legislation forward.