New hygiene scheme opens doors for consumers

The Food Hygiene Information Scheme is being run in Perth and parts of Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Fife and Renfrewshire, and applies to all premises supplying food to the public in those areas.

It was developed and implemented in Scotland by the Food Standards Agency Scotland with the support of consumer organisations, industry and local authorities.

Around 3,000 establishments are taking part in the pilot and from the launch date they will be asked to display certificates prominently on the door or window of their premises, showing how well they did in their last hygiene inspection.

These certificates, based on current inspection records will say 'Pass' or 'Improvement Required'. An 'Awaiting Inspection' certificate will be available for new businesses.

George Paterson, Director, FSA Scotland said: 'This scheme is designed to give consumers clear information that is easy to understand and which helps them make informed choices about the hygiene standards in the outlets in their area.

'Our Scottish Consumer Attitudes Survey 2005 showed that many people were concerned about hygiene in food outlets, as such it makes sense for businesses to put customers and food hygiene at the top of their agenda. The more confident customers are in a business� food hygiene, the more likely they are to come back!

'We hope this new scheme will increase consumer confidence and help people make informed choices about where they eat or buy their food.'