Food hygiene rating scheme
Information for a food business
The scheme recognises food outlets with the highest standards and helps improve hygiene standards.
A rating of 0 (the worst) to 5 (the best) are given by Environmental Health Officers following an inspection of a food business and are based on:
- how hygienically the food is handled
- the condition of the premises
- how food safety is managed
Further information and guidance (opens new window)
Managing documents to make sure your food is safe
It is a legal requirement for most food businesses to provide documentary evidence that the food they produce is safe. This should:
- identify and show an understanding of the food safety hazards
- provide evidence that measures have been taken to control these hazards
- provide evidence that all food handlers are supervised and instructed and/or trained in food hygiene so that they produce food that is safe to eat
The Food Standards Agency has produced systems to help create a documented food safety management system:
Improving your rating
All businesses should be able to get the top rating.
To help get this you should:
- look at your last food hygiene inspection report to check that you've taken all of the actions needed
- at your next inspection, if you don't get the top rating and you have queries about the improvements you need to make to get a better rating, then the food safety officer will be able to give you advice