A new ratings system for food
businesses was launched across Hambleton and Richmondshire this
week (Monday).
The scheme helps consumers choose where to eat
out or shop for food by rating businesses from 0 to 5 – 5 for the
best and 0 for the worst.
The national food hygiene ratings covers
restaurants, pubs, cafes, takeaways and hotels as well as
supermarkets and food shops. The ranking will be
displayed on window stickers and certificates – as well as being
listed on food.gov.uk/ratings;.hambleton.gov.uk
or.richmondshire.gov.uk
The score is given following inspection by a
council food safety officer – it is the rating at the time of the
inspection. One of six scores can be given - 0
means urgent improvement is necessary, while 5 means the business
was found to have very good hygiene standards.
“Whether you are eating out or eating in, the
new Food Hygiene Rating Scheme for Hambleton and Richmondshire
makes it easier for you to choose places with good hygiene,” said
Hambleton Cabinet Member, Councillor Peter Wilkinson.
“The rating each business is given tells you
the standards in restaurants, pubs, cafes, takeaways, hotels and
other places you eat out in – as well as in supermarkets and other
food shops.
And Councillor Ken Lambert, Richmondshire
Strategy Board Member added: “However, food hygiene – and this
rating – is not a guide to food quality.
“All premises are inspected by environmental
health officers on a regular basis – restaurants, takeaways, cafes,
sandwich shops, pubs, hotels, supermarkets. Good hygiene is
good for business – and any improvements needed to get a higher
rating will be no more than is already required by law.”
The national scheme aims to reduce foodborne
illnesses and ensure consistency for businesses and clarity for
consumers across the country.
September 6, 2011