Exeter City Council working in partnership with the Food Standards Agency, is urging people to check the restaurant, pub or cafe’s food hygiene ratings before making a booking.
“It’s the things you can’t see – like germs spread by bad hygiene practices - that people need to consider. There’s one easy way to set your mind at rest – check the food hygiene rating,” said Cllr Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environment, Health and Wellbeing.
“It’s really easy to check - just go to www.food.gov.uk/ratings or if you’re out and about check for the green and black sticker; if you can’t see one, just ask,” he added.
The ratings are determined by local authority food safety officers and run from 0-5, with a 5 rating meaning a very good level of food hygiene. 97% of Exeter’s food businesses are rated 3 or better, so there are plenty of places with good standards and people can easily avoid taking their family to those not meeting the grade. The basic rule is, if you don’t see a green and black sticker in the window or you spot a low rating online, you can make a better informed choice.
Catherine Brown, Chief Executive, Food Standards Agency, agrees: “This Christmas, do this one little thing for peace of mind when eating out. Take a moment to check the food hygiene rating, pick the right place, and enjoy a great meal out.”
“It’s easy for people in Exeter to check hygiene ratings online and choose a restaurant for their Christmas parties that takes food hygiene seriously, said Cllr Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environmental Health and Wellbeing. “This is an important time for local businesses - a good food hygiene rating is something to be proud of; it matters to customers so we are encouraging all businesses in Exeter to display their rating and have a prosperous Christmas season.”
