Introduction:
When it comes to the food we buy and consume, it's important to be aware of the environment it comes from. One way to make informed choices is by understanding "food hygiene ratings." This article will explain what these ratings are, where to find them, and provide tips for good hygiene practices.
What are "Food Hygiene Ratings"?
Food hygiene ratings are a system that assigns a rating from 5 to 0 to businesses based on their hygiene standards. These ratings are displayed at the premises and can also be found online. By knowing the hygiene rating, you can make more informed decisions about where to buy and eat food. The following are the rating categories:
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.
Finding Business Premises:
To search for the hygiene rating of a business premises, you can visit the website: food ratings website (UK)
What the Rating Covers:
Food hygiene ratings provide a snapshot of the standards of food hygiene observed during inspections. It is the responsibility of the businesses to comply with food hygiene laws at all times. The rating covers the following aspects:
1. Handling of food
2. Food storage
3. Food preparation
4. Cleanliness of facilities
5. Food safety management
Information Not Covered by the Rating:
It's important to note that food hygiene ratings do not provide information on the following factors:
1. Quality of the food
2. Customer service
3. Culinary skill
4. Presentation
5. Comfort
What to Do in Case of Suspected Food Poisoning:
If you suspect food poisoning, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your GP and contact your local environmental health or food safety team.
Good Hygiene Practices:
Proper handwashing is a simple yet crucial practice that many people overlook. Follow these five steps every time:
1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), and apply soap. Turn off the tap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap, ensuring to cover the backs, between the fingers, and under the nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. You can use the "Happy Birthday" song as a timer by humming it twice from beginning to end.
4. Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or allow them to air dry.
Conclusion:
By understanding food hygiene ratings and practicing good hygiene habits, we can make informed choices about where we buy and eat our food. Remember to check the ratings of business premises and prioritize proper handwashing to ensure food safety and prevent illness.