After a thorough food safety inspection from your local council, your business will be awarded a Food Hygiene Rating. This rating plays a crucial role in helping customers decide where to dine or purchase food, as high ratings reflect positively on your business. These ratings provide a snapshot of the food standards and hygiene practices observed at the time of the inspection.

Your Food Hygiene Rating takes into account several factors, such as the hygienic handling of food, which includes preparation, cooking, reheating, cooling, and storage. Additionally, the cleanliness and condition of facilities and buildings are assessed, with emphasis on layout, ventilation, handwashing facilities, and pest control.

Moreover, the rating evaluates the hygienic management of food safety. This includes the systems or checks in place to ensure the food sold or served is consistently safe to eat, maintaining excellent food quality and sustainable food practices. Adhering to these food industry standards not only ensures compliance with food regulation but also demonstrates commitment to high food compliance levels. By maintaining superior hygiene standards, your business can thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Following an inspection your business will be given a rating between 0 and 5: 

• 5 – Hygiene standards are very good 
• 4 – Hygiene standards are good 
• 3 – Hygiene standards are generally satisfactory 
• 2 – Some improvement is necessary 
• 1 – Major improvement is necessary 
• 0 – Urgent improvement is required

Adhering to food safety protocols and completing the food safety management diary accurately will aid in food compliance and enhance your Food Hygiene Rating. For those operating a food business in Wales or Northern Ireland, it is mandatory to display your Food Hygiene Rating sticker at each entrance where it is clearly visible to customers. Although not obligatory, food businesses in England are also encouraged to follow these food industry standards. Food Hygiene Ratings are accessible online as well. After an inspection, businesses have the opportunity to appeal their rating, publish a response to their rating, and request a re-visit from their local council to ensure adherence to food regulation and food standards.