The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) gives food businesses a rating based on Environmental Health Officer inspections. Your rating affects customer confidence and, in some nations, must be displayed by law.
What inspectors assess
During an inspection, Environmental Health Officers evaluate three main areas:
- how hygienically you handle food, including preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage
- the cleanliness and condition of your premises, including layout, lighting, ventilation and facilities
- how you manage food safety, including the checks that keep food safe and staff training
Each area is scored and combined to produce your overall rating. Inspectors will also check your HACCP documentation (such as Safer Food, Better Business) and training records.
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Display your rating
Display your FHRS sticker prominently, where customers can see it.
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Check your rating online
You receive written notification of your rating within 14 days of inspection. A rating of 5 is published online as soon as your council uploads it. Ratings of 0 to 4 are published 3 to 5 weeks after the inspection.
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Request re-inspection
If you've made improvements, you can request a re-rating visit.
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Appeal if incorrect
You have 21 days from being notified to appeal the rating if you believe it is incorrect.
Ask for a re-rating
If you did not get a 5, you can ask your council for a re-rating visit once you have accepted your rating and completed all the improvements the inspector recommended. Fees, how many requests you can make and how soon the visit happens depend on your council. You are told your new rating within 14 days of the visit, and it can go up, down or stay the same.
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations
Official guidance
Food Hygiene Information Scheme (Food Standards Scotland) (opens in a new tab)
www.foodstandards.gov.scot
Food hygiene ratings (opens in a new tab)
FSA
FSA: Food hygiene ratings (opens in a new tab)
FSA · England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS): guidance for businesses (opens in a new tab)
FSA · England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Food and Feed Codes of Practice (opens in a new tab)
FSA · England, Wales and Northern Ireland