Views wanted on UK-wide 'scores on the doors'
Tuesday 20 May 2008
The Agency is seeking views on proposals for establishing a UK-wide 'scores on the doors' scheme to provide consumers with information about hygiene standards in food businesses.
See the consultations for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland at the links towards the end of this page. The consultation for Wales will begin later this month.
What is a 'scores on the doors' scheme?
It is a scheme whereby food businesses are given a score to indicate the hygiene standards in their premises found during inspections by local authority enforcement officers to check that they are complying with legal requirements. Each food outlet may display the score on its door or window, and consumers can also look them up on a website.
The primary purpose is to empower consumers so they may make informed choices about the places in which they choose to buy food. Evidence from current schemes suggests that this can, in turn, provide recognition to businesses and encourage them to raise their hygiene standards.
More information about 'scores on the doors' and the evaluation of existing schemes can be found at the link towards the end of this page.
Why is the Agency establishing a UK-wide scheme?
There are currently a variety of differently designed schemes operating in an estimated 196 local authority areas. The introduction of a UK-wide scheme will avoid further proliferation of different arrangements in different areas, and will help to ensure clarity for consumers and consistency for businesses. Consumer, industry and local authority stakeholders have expressed support for a UK-wide scheme for these reasons.
What is being consulted on?
The Agency is seeking comments on the essential features of a UK-wide scheme:
- its basic design – the scoring system and associated classification, and symbols and/or descriptors
- its scope – what sort of businesses will be given a score
- its visibility – where consumers will find out what the scores are for the businesses from which they buy their food
- its safeguards to ensure that businesses are treated fairly and equitably
- its associated support package to help local authorities to implement and operate the scheme accurately and consistently
What happens after the consultation?
The Board will consider the outcome of the consultation in the autumn with a view to a UK-wide scheme being launched in early 2009. It will be supported by a centrally funded branding and marketing exercise and by a national promotional campaign to raise awareness of consumers and food businesses.
The scheme will be subject to review after a two-year implementation period. This will assess its impact and take-up, and any changes necessary in light of experience.
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