LOCAL frozen meal manufacturer apetito is celebrating after receiving two independent food industry awards.

Trowbridge-based apetito has been awarded the CLASA accreditation for the company's microbiological laboratory and the EFSIS Higher Level award for the factory.

Food safety scares are all too common and customers are aware today of the need to make sure manufacturers have faultless processes to ensure quality and safety.

The company makes sure all food has been microbiologically tested before being dispatched. Each batch has to pass nine safety tests before distribution.

With apetito's meals consumed mainly by the elderly and the sick, food safety is paramount as these groups are most vulnerable.

To be successfully awarded CLAS (Camden Laboratory Accreditation Scheme) accreditation, a company has to demonstrate effective test methodologies, validity of results and staff training procedures.

Apetito's large factory has gained EFSIS (European Food Safety Inspection Service) Higher Level accreditation. This ensures all aspects of the manufacturing process make the grade.

John Gillespie, apetito's technical manager, said: "We have worked incredibly hard over the past 12 months to ensure all our systems and processes meet the standards set by these independent accreditation bodies."