Food Hygiene Rating Scheme

About the food hygiene rating scheme

Hygiene ratings explained

Food hygiene inspections are carried out by Environmental Health in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice.

Scores are given for:

  • food hygiene compliance (handling, preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage)
  • structure and cleanliness (condition, layout, lighting, ventilation and facilities)
  • confidence in management (management and records, training, procedures and maintenance)

The scores are added together to determine the overall rating in accordance with the Brand Standard.

View hygiene ratings in the North Devon Area

For more information visit the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme safeguards for businesses web page on the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) website.

Request a food hygiene rating revisit

A food business can request a revisit for the purposes of re-rating if they have taken action to rectify the non-compliances identified at the time of inspection.

There is no limit on the number of requests a business can make provided they have made the required improvements. Each request will cost £110 (plus VAT).

Businesses must provide details of the improvements made with the request.

The revisit will be carried out within three months of the request and payment of the fee.

The officer will give the business a 'new' food hygiene rating based on the level of compliance that is found at the time of the revisit. This can mean that the rating could go up, down or remain the same.

The Food Standards Agency have produced guidance for businesses to assist in preparation for a revisit.

Request a visit Online form

Request a revisit form via the FHRS website 

Appeal against a food hygiene rating

After an inspection, there is a 21 day period in which food businesses can appeal if they feel that the rating is unfair.

Appeal about a Food Hygiene Rating form via the FHRS website

Right of Reply

Food Businesses Operators have a 'right to reply' which will be published on the website with the rating. The purpose is to allow you to explain what has been done since the inspection to put the problems right.

Right to reply form via the FHRS website