South Holland District Council urges residents to 'look before you book' for Christmas

Posted on 26 November 2021

With Christmas round the corner and people beginning to plan the perfect place to celebrate the festive period with friends, colleagues and family, South Holland District Council are encouraging people to 'look before you book' at food hygiene ratings this year.

The ratings are a crucial tool to provide the public with information on the standards of hygiene at a venue, determined following an unannounced visit by local authority food safety officers, who follow national guidelines and are trained to make sure ratings are consistently applied.

All ratings are publicly available and easy to check on the Food Standards Agency website at www.food.gov.uk/ratings, or by checking the green and black sticker at the venue. If you can't see one displayed, just ask.

Ratings vary from 0-5, with a rating of 5 meaning a very good level of food hygiene. Around 99% of businesses in South Holland are rated 3 or better, with over 70% receiving the highest available score. Checking the results of a restaurant or store before visiting allows people to make an informed decision before booking, and helps them to keep themselves and their family and friends safe.

Councillor Anthony Casson, portfolio holder for public protection said: "This festive period is an important one for our local restaurants and businesses following the impact of the pandemic, and also for those of us looking to celebrate Christmas with our loved ones, which may not have been possible last year.

"Our Food, Health and Safety Team works hard to monitor hygiene standards across the District, and to offer advice and guidance on good practices. The fact we have such high ratings in South Holland is testament to their work, and that of our many businesses who are committed to providing the best and safest customer experience they can.

"Ratings are easy to check online and can help you to choose a restaurant that takes hygiene seriously. A good rating should be something to be proud of and matters to customers, so we are encouraging all businesses to display their rating and have a prosperous festive season."

For more information, visit www.sholland.gov.uk/Food.