Food control system assessment tool: dimension A: inputs and resources 

Overview

Dimension A aims at mapping the fundamental elements necessary for the system to operate. These range from legal and policy instruments to financial assets, equipment and infrastructure, and human resources. Dimension A consists of nine competencies under three sub-dimensions which are Policy and Legal Frameworks, Infrastructure and Finances, and Human Resources.

A.1. Policy and Legal Framework explores the policy and legal foundation of the food control system. Three main elements are assessed here: the quality of the policy and legislation drafting processes; the conduciveness of the institutional framework to efficient use of the competent authorities’ resources and skills; and the incorporation of key technical elements into the legislation, aligned on internationally agreed good practices.

A.2. Infrastructure and Finances screens the fundamental inputs that should feed into the system to make it work properly, from the financial resources to sustain the system to the infrastructure to enable the food control activities to take place and the analytical resources to support official controls over food.

A.3. Human Resources analyses the issues related to food control personnel and the importance of their qualifications, professional development, and motivation to contribute towards the achievement of the food control policy outcomes.