12 December 2014

Check food hygiene ratings to ensure you have a cracker of a Christmas meal out

Good company, great food, Christmas crackers and maybe even gifts are the perfect ingredients for an enjoyable meal out during the festive season, but do you check the food hygiene rating before you book a table?

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates food businesses on their hygiene standards which are based on inspections carried out by Rochford District Council’s Environmental Health Team. Businesses in the area are rated on a scale ranging from 0 which means ‘urgent improvement necessary’ to a top rating of 5 which is ‘very good’. Look out for the green and black food hygiene rating stickers displayed on windows and doors to find out how businesses in the Rochford District area are doing. If you can’t see a sticker, then ask the restaurant staff or check online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings.

Rochford District Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Cllr Keith Gordon, said: “Christmas is a busy time for our local restaurants, cafes and pubs and we want our residents to have a memorable Christmas for the right reasons! The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme helps people to choose an eatery where food hygiene is taken seriously."

So, whether you’re planning a festive meal out with family, friends or work colleagues or just grabbing a quick lunch when out Christmas shopping, don’t just consider the menu – make sure you check the hygiene rating too!