You’ve thought about what you would like for Christmas this year but have you considered what you don’t want? Eating somewhere with poor food hygiene standards could make you ill and really ruin the festive season.
Make sure the food you buy while dashing around the shops or eating out with friends comes from somewhere that gives priority to safe food.
The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates all food businesses on their hygiene standards, based on inspections carried out by Pembrokeshire County Council.
Businesses in the area are rated from 0 which means ‘urgent improvement necessary’ to a top rating of 5 which is ‘very good’. The scheme is designed to provide information to help you choose where to eat, giving an indication of hygiene practices behind the kitchen door.
Since the end of November 2013, all Welsh businesses selling and providing food from big supermarkets to small street traders have been legally required to display their rating sticker; if you can’t see one ask a member of staff. If you’re planning ahead then you can also check the rating online www.food.gov.uk/ratings
Make sure that a meal out with family and friends or your work do will be memorable for the right reasons.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental and Regulatory Services, Councillor Huw George, said: “The scheme really encourages businesses to improve their food hygiene standards – any business can achieve a ‘5′ so nobody should have a low rating.
Don’t forget to check before you decide to eat. It’s better to be safe than sorry especially at Christmas time.”
Nina Purcell Director of the Food Standards Agency in Wales, said: “The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme has gone from strength to strength since it was first introduced and has been a key factor in the improvement of food safety standards. Consumers can make an informed decision where to eat, so they can have a safe and happy Christmas.”
Keep food safety at the top of your Christmas list this year and find out if where you’re about to eat has been on top of their food hygiene! www.food.gov.uk/ratings
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