Ards and North Down celebrates 10 years of mandatory Food Hygiene Ratings

Ards and North Down Borough Council is joining the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in marking 10 years since the introduction of mandatory Food Hygiene Ratings in Northern Ireland.

Since October 2016, food businesses have been legally required to display their Food Hygiene Rating sticker prominently at their premises, helping consumers make informed choices about where to eat and buy food.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme is delivered locally by district councils in partnership with the FSA. Environmental Health Officers carry out inspections, award ratings and work closely with businesses to support compliance with food hygiene legislation and maintain high standards of food safety.

This anniversary also provides an opportunity to recognise the important contribution of Environmental Health Officers, whose work over the past decade has helped protect public health and support continuous improvement across the local food industry.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney, said:

"The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme has become an important and trusted source of information for consumers. Over the past 10 years it has helped drive improvements in food hygiene standards and given the public greater confidence when choosing where to eat and shop.

This anniversary is also an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of our Environmental Health Officers and the commitment shown by food businesses across the Borough in maintaining high standards of food hygiene."

Customers are encouraged to look for the familiar green and black Food Hygiene Rating sticker when choosing where to eat or buy food, or to check the rating of a business online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings.

Photo Caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney marks 10 years since the introduction of mandatory Food Hygiene Ratings in Northern Ireland.