Food ratings on the menu

Council adopts national scheme
Top pubs and tasty cafes across Oldham will be revealed thanks to a national rating system.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS), launched today at the Salt Cellar in Church Lane, will replace the Scores on the Doors system previously run by the council.

The national scheme has been developed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in partnership with local authorities and provides information about food hygiene standards to help people choose where to eat out or shop for food.

Food outlets, such as restaurants, takeaways, cafes and pubs, are regularly inspected by council food-safety officers to check that their hygiene standards meet legal requirements.

Elaine McLean, executive director for economy, place and skills, said: “Oldham Council has opted to change to the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme as we can see the benefits for local food businesses and the people that eat or shop in them.

“Having a single scheme which is consistent nationwide means that the rating will have the same significance wherever people are buying food.

“We hope that food companies will recognise that displaying a good hygiene rating is good for their business.”

Catriona Stewart, head of the food hygiene ratings team at the FSA, added: “It’s great news that Oldham has announced their intention to switch to the new national scheme.

“Having a single nationwide scheme will mean a level playing field for businesses across the country, and consumers will be able to recognise and use the ratings in their own area, as well as further afield.”

The FHRS ratings will be available to view on the FSA’s website at www.food.gov.uk/ratings and businesses will be given a sticker and certificate to display.