FAQ's

All frequently asked questions are displayed for everyone's benefit. If you can't seem to find what you're looking for, contact us using the button below.

What is a Food Safety Management System?

This is a document that outlines your commitment to upholding good food hygiene practices that ensure food is prepared, stored, and sold in a manner that makes it safe for consumption. It gives detail as to how a business will adhere to these practices, in particular through the use of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system, which is required by law. 

Do I need a Food Hygiene Certificate?

In the UK food handlers don't legally have to hold a food hygiene certificate to prepare or sell food. However, in accordance with the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, it is a requirement that food businesses ensure that their workers have up-to-date food hygiene knowledge, via a food hygiene training course, that is in proportion to their work. It is also advised that refresher training is undertaken on a  regular basis, generally every 3 years.

What is the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS)?

 The food hygiene rating scheme is run by the Food Standards Agency in partnership with local authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The scheme helps consumers choose where to eat out or shop for food by giving them information about the hygiene standards in restaurants, pubs, cafés, takeaways, hotels and other places they eat, as well as supermarkets and other food shops.

It’s not easy to judge hygiene standards on appearance alone, so the rating gives the consumer an idea of what’s going on in the kitchen, or behind closed doors. Consumers can check the rating of your food business and use the information to switch to or choose a place with higher standards. 

Who undertakes Food Hygiene Inspections?

Food hygiene inspections are carried out by Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) who have the power to enter your food premises at any reasonable time. 

The inspection is based on three things: 

1. Food Safety Practices - how hygienically food is handled

2. Structure - the condition of the premises

3. Confidence in Management - How the business manages and documents food safety

The results of the inspection make up your Food Hygiene Rating Score which is made public on the Food Standards Agency website.

 For help improving or predicting your food hygiene rating and more information, please refer to the Food Hygiene Rating section of the website or contact us using the button below.