FZMR12-UK Food Law - The Basics

Module Provider: Food and Nutritional Sciences
Number of credits: 5 [2.5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr David Jukes
Email: d.j.jukes@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Delivered on-line only through distance learning using video lectures, interactive forum based seminars and self-directed study hosted on the University of Reading’s VLE, this module will develop the basic knowledge and understanding of matters relating to UK food law.

Topics covered include:

• the historical development of UK food law


• the main elements in current UK food law


• the procedures and policies used by the EU to develop legislation

Aims:

The module aims to provide an introduction to matters relating to UK food law such that the student will have developed an understanding of the area to be able to effectively identify and meet the requirements derived from UK food law and participate in and contribute to the future development of UK food law.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of the module, learners should be able to:

• explain the origins and background to UK food legislation and describe its overall structure and key components


• access the legal requirements which are imposed on the food industry

Additional outcomes:

The following transferable skills will be developed in this module:

• Critical evaluation of data from a variety of sources


• Effective communication of scientific information in oral and written format with scientific rigour


• Debating skills

Outline content:

In providing the basic background information and knowledge to UK food law this module will cover the following topics

• Historical development of UK food law


• Current policies and procedures


• Main elements of current UK food law

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will consist of five weeks of distance learning material, including video lectures, guided reading, interactive workbooks and online discussion boards delivered by experts in the area. Discussion and feedback will take place through the Virtual Learning Environment associated with the module and e-mail. 

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		10
Guided independent study:		40
Total hours by term	0	50	0
Total hours for module	50

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	80
Set exercise	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Blackboard Multiple choice question tests used during distance learning delivery. Questions related to video lectures and directed reading contribute 20% of the module mark. Written assignment (2000 word report): individual assignment. Contributes 80% of module mark.

Formative assessment methods:

Self-assessment multiple choice question tests used during distance learning delivery. 

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall in all assessed work.

Reassessment arrangements:

In the event of a student failing the module they will be reassessed based on resubmission of failed coursework assignments or equivalent pieces of work.  Module marks are capped at 50% for passes at 2nd attempt.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 30 March 2023