A special presentation was made at, The Guildhall, Beverley, to the 1000th food business to be rated by the council’s food services team under the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme.
Lord Rooker, chair of the Food Standards Agency, the body that oversees the running of the scheme nationally, and Councillor Stephen Parnaby OBE, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, presented the certificate of a five rating to Nigel Edwards and Sarah Evans of The Seabirds Inn, Bridlington.
The scheme, which operates as a common standard across the UK, was introduced in the East Riding in December 2010 and helps consumers choose where to eat out or shop for food by giving information about the hygiene standards in restaurants, pubs, cafes, takeaways and hotels. Supermarkets and other food shops are also included in the scheme.
Councillor Stephen Parnaby OBE said: “Since its introduction, the council has been pleased that the majority of food businesses inspected are in compliance with food hygiene law.
“It is important for our residents to know which premises are scoring well so they can make informed decisions on whether to shop or eat there.
“The food hygiene rating scheme incentivises improvements in food hygiene and lowers costs for compliant food businesses as well as allowing the council to target its resources on those businesses that cut corners and put people’s health at risk.”
Lord Rooker was delighted to present The Seabirds Inn with its rating and to celebrate the authority’s inspection milestone.
He said: “The East Riding was one of the first local authorities to introduce the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, so it is a great achievement that they can now celebrate 1000 rated food outlets. Top rated caterers such as The Seabirds Inn will see that this is good for business, as consumers will look for high ratings.
“No-one should feel that they are gambling with their health when they eat out, but now the hygiene rating gives customers a glimpse into the kitchen, or behind the scenes. The FSA developed the scheme to help reduce the one million cases of food poisoning suffered by people each year.”
Consumers can search the national website to find out scores in their areas.
Food Standards Agency (external website)
