News : Roundswell & Sticklepath

A pilot scheme being trialled in North Devon lets people see at a glance how hygienic restaurants, cafes and other food shops are.

The ‘Scores on the Doors’ initiative, supported by the Food Standards Agency, publicises how well local food businesses have complied with national food safety standards. North Devon District Council is one local authority taking part in the scheme and, if successful, it may be adopted throughout the UK.

From the 1st October, local businesses involved in preparing, serving and selling food will be given a Star Rating, ranging from 5 for full compliance with legislation to 0 for general failure to meet food safety standards. The score will be based on their latest food hygiene inspection results.

Premises are encouraged to display the score on their door or window and the results will also be available on the Council’s website. This will allow people to make informed decisions about where they choose to eat. It will also give recognition to high achieving businesses and act as an  incentive to others to improve their food safety.

The hygiene rating is based on three criteria:

Hygiene and handling procedures when preparing, serving and selling food
The structure and layout of the premises including the cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, facilities and equipment.
Management and control of food hazards and documentation of those systems and access to technical advice.

Cllr Roy Lucas, Licensing Committee Chairman says: “North Devon District Council is delighted to be taking part in this innovative pilot scheme to improve food safety. It gives local residents, as well as visitors to the region, important information about where they choose to eat.

“A majority of premises across the district already have very good hygiene standards and it is hoped that Scores on the Doors will encourage businesses to improve standards even further.”

The results of food inspections taking place from the beginning of next month will be available to view at www.northdevon.gov.uk/scoresonthedoors and the data base will be added to as Environmental Health Officers carry out their regular inspections. Local residents or business owners who would like further information on the scheme can contact North Devon District Council on 01271 388870 or email customerservices@northdevon.gov.uk.

For more information contact: Pamela Charles Environmental Health Officer North Devon District Council 01271 388430 pam.charles@northdevon.gov.uk

Cllr Roy Lucas Licensing Committee Chairman North Devon District Council 01271 813612 douglas.lucas@northdevon.gov.uk