Agenda item

Report of the Interim Director of Consumer Protection and Market Operations.

The Committee considered a report of the Interim Director of Consumer Protection & Market Operations. The report aims to raise awareness amongst the public and help make informed choices about where they eat out or shop for take away food. 

Members were informed that of a sample of 140 food premises which had received a lower rating than they had previously obtained, 22 (16%) were found to be displaying a Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) sticker that was higher than to which they were entitled. Members were informed that it was a criminal offence to display an inaccurate rating.

Officers from the City of London approached 75 businesses to gather their views on the FHRS, some of the businesses suggested that this should be a nationwide initiative. Moreover, the Foods Standard Agency wants to make the rating compulsory and the City of London will work relevant agencies on this. 

RESOLVED – that the Committee:

1. Note the contents of this report.

2. Approve sharing of the results of this project with the Food Standards

Agency to support the City Corporation’s policy that the display of

FHRS scores should be mandatory in England.

3. Approve publicising the results of this project to:-

a) raise awareness of the FHRS with consumers;

b) encourage consumers to check the rating of food premises on the

FSA website before purchasing food; and

c) encourage the reporting of premises to Trading Standards that are

displaying a misleading rating.