ABC Council celebrates 10 years of mandatory Food Hygiene Ratings in Northern Ireland
The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme has become an important part of helping residents and visitors make informed choices about where they eat and buy food, according to the Lord Mayor of ABC Borough, Cllr Mary O’Dowd.
ARMAGH City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council is joining the Food Standards Agency in celebrating ten years since the introduction of mandatory display of Food Hygiene Ratings in Northern Ireland.
Since October 2016, food businesses across our city, towns and villages have been legally required to display their Food Hygiene Rating sticker in a prominent place at their premises, helping customers make informed choices about where to eat out.
The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) is delivered locally by district councils in partnership with the Food Standards Agency. Environmental Health Officers carry out food hygiene inspections, determine Food Hygiene Ratings and work closely with businesses to support ongoing compliance with food hygiene legislation.
Food Hygiene Ratings provide information about the standards of food hygiene found at a business at the time of inspection, with 5 (Very Good) representing the highest rating.
Lord Mayor of ABC Borough, Cllr Mary O’Dowd said: “The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme has become an important part of helping residents and visitors make informed choices about where they eat and buy food.
“Over the past ten years, our Environmental Health Officers have worked closely with local food businesses to help maintain high standards of food hygiene and protect public health.
“This anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the commitment shown by businesses across the ABC Borough and to thank everyone who has contributed to the
success of the scheme.”
Paula O’Neill who is the Environmental Health Manager at ABC Council said: “Food Hygiene Ratings give consumers useful information about the hygiene standards found when a food business is inspected.
“Our officers inspect a wide range of food businesses throughout the year, providing advice and support while ensuring food hygiene legislation is met. We’re proud of the strong working relationships we’ve developed with local businesses over the past decade and the high standards that continue to be achieved across our council area.”
As part of the anniversary campaign, ABC Council will be sharing information about the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, celebrating the contribution of local food businesses and recognising the important role Environmental Health Officers play in delivering the scheme locally.
Customers are encouraged to look for the familiar green and black Food Hygiene Rating sticker when choosing where to eat or buy food or check a business’s rating online at ratings.food.gov.uk.