Top marks for food hygiene inspectors

An impressive 98.6 per cent of food businesses across Erewash were rated at least three or higher on the hygiene scale in the past year – following the work of borough council inspectors.

The vast majority scored five, which means “very good”. A four rating is “good” – while a three is “generally satisfactory”.

The borough council’s team – based at Long Eaton Town Hall – smashed a target to ensure at least 96 per cent of the borough’s 1,000-plus eateries, schools, food factories and other outlets did not fall below three.

A report to senior councillors, including leader James Dawson, revealed that the authority’s inspectors completed 100 per cent of visits required by the Food Standards Agency. The team also exceeded its goal for dealing with inquiries – responding to 96 per cent within three working days.

By working closely with businesses to provide guidance, the inspectors only had to issue one hygiene improvement notice. Eight other notices were related to health and safety. The Food Health and Safety service is part of the Environmental Health team at Erewash Borough Council. 

The report to what is known as the Council Executive described a mission to ensure “a level playing field for businesses to thrive without being undercut by those who would ignore the nation’s established food health and safety in search of quick profit”. 

Councillor Mark Alfrey, Lead Member for Environment, said: “The service is on the front line when it comes to the cleanliness of food premises and safe food production. Our team also works closely with local food producers such as farmers who sell their products directly to our local community. 

“The council ensures that they get the right advice to provide safe food and so thrive as a business. This reduces packaging while also reducing the miles food travels – cutting the carbon footprint of the food we eat and protecting the environment.”

The report comes as the government’s Food Standards Agency launches a new campaign to encourage food outlets to display their hygiene ratings online as well as on a store sticker. Two thirds currently fail to do so. An official said: “This is despite nine out of ten businesses receiving a rating of four or five.

“When it comes to safety, selecting food online should be no different to selecting a restaurant or takeaway on your local high street – so check out the latest online display guidance.”

Information can be found here.