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The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme is led by the government in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is put in place to make sure that cafes, food stalls, restaurants, and most other food premises, are preparing food in sanitary, and safe conditions. Whether you are new to the food industry, preparing for your first food hygiene inspection, or trying to boost a past food hygiene rating – it proves to the public how serious you are about your business and the services that you provide.
In the UK it is recommended that all food businesses display their food hygiene rating on their premises, in a clear and concise way. That said, some businesses choose not to do so, for one reason or another – leaving their score to the customer’s imagination. Although not advised, it is legal and all food hygiene ratings can be viewed online if a customer would like to look further.
Food businesses in both Northern Ireland and Wales are required by law to display their Food Hygiene Rating score (FHRS) in a prominent place, such as the front door, entrance, or window of their premises. The displaying of the Food Hygiene Rating score became mandatory in Wales back in November of 2013 and in Northern Ireland, it was October 2016. In England, as mentioned previously, businesses are encouraged to follow suit, but not required by law to display their rating.
We have mentioned England, Northern Ireland, and Wales – what about Scotland? The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme is led by the government only in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, they do things differently – their rating system is known as the Food Hygiene Information Scheme (FHIS). All food businesses in Scotland must have a food hygiene inspection, which is also undertaken by their Local Authority. Following this inspection, the food outlet will be awarded a Food Hygiene Information Scheme rating based on their inspection results. Displaying their score is not mandatory. You can read more about the Food Hygiene Information Scheme here.
Do you have an upcoming Food Hygiene Rating inspection? Or perhaps you want to train yourself or your employees further? We have various Food Hygiene & Safety courses available on our website. Our high-quality courses are available at extremely competitive prices, and we offer discounts for bulk orders. Visit essentialfoodhygiene.co.uk to find out more.
