Appealing Fines under the Food Act

Received a fine from the BFSA (Bulgarian Food Safety Agency) or RFSD (Regional Food Safety Directorate)? We know in detail the practice, procedures and requirements of the control authorities in the food sector. When you understand the logic and arguments of the control authority, you can build an effective defence against it.

Why timely defence matters

Sanctions under the Food Act can reach tens of thousands of leva and threaten the licence of your premises. That is why any flaw in the control authority's act can be decisive for the outcome of the case.

How we can help

• Appealing penalty decrees of the RFSD / BFSA;
• Checking for procedural breaches in drawing up the statement of administrative offence;
• Defence during inspections of warehouses, retail premises and restaurants;
• Consultation in cases of irregular registration or missing documentation;
• Representation before the Regional and Administrative Court.

Typical offences that trigger sanctions

Among the most common grounds for fines under the Food Act are:

• Lack of registration under the Food Act;
• Goods past their expiry date;
• Labels without information in Bulgarian;
• Inability to trace the origin of the goods.

Each of these offences can lead to a fine of BGN 2,000 and upwards – and that is per individual offence.

Steps when you receive a penalty decree

1. Keep the act and the envelope – the date of service sets the 14-day deadline.
2. Do not sign hasty objections – consult before you respond.
3. Analysis of the act – we check for procedural defects in drawing up the offence statement and penalty decree.
4. Filing an appeal – we prepare and file the appeal on time.
5. Representation in court – we defend your premises before the Regional and Administrative Court.