AIMS Takes FSA to Court Over Inspection Costs
AIMS Mounts Legal Action Over FSA Veterinary Fee Increase
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has launched a legal challenge against the Food Standards Agency over a proposed 24% rise in official veterinarian charges.
According to reporting by Pig World, AIMS argues that the planned increase is unlawful and disproportionate, warning it would impose an additional £10 million in costs on the meat industry.
The dispute centres on fees charged for statutory veterinary inspection services within approved meat establishments. AIMS has described the proposed uplift as “inflation-busting” and says it risks placing further financial strain on processors already dealing with tight margins and reduced livestock throughput.
The FSA has previously stated that official control charges are subject to regulatory requirements and cost recovery principles. However, AIMS maintains that the scale and structure of the proposed rise require judicial scrutiny.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for inspection cost structures across the UK meat sector, particularly for smaller and independent processors.
Source: Pig World | 20 February 2026
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