How food hygiene ratings are calculated
Each business receives a rating after a food safety officer carries out an inspection. The rating is based on how well the business meets food hygiene law at the time of the visit.
Food businesses are given a rating from 0 to 5 after inspection.
- 5 – very good
- 4 – good
- 3 – generally satisfactory
- 2 – improvement needed
- 1 – major improvement needed
- 0 – urgent improvement required
Food handling
This includes how safely food is prepared, cooked, reheated, cooled and stored.
Condition of the premises
Officers check the cleanliness, layout, repair, lighting, ventilation and the general condition of the building and its facilities.
Food safety management
Businesses must show they have an effective food safety system in place and keep proper records, using guidance such as:
The rating reflects the hygiene standards found during the most recent inspection. It does not assess the quality of the food or the level of customer service.